While most restaurant are generally safe to work at, it’s still possible to suffer injuries if you’re not careful. A lot workers compensation lawyers have represented many restaurant workers who suffered injuries during their shifts. Some of the injuries even required hospitalization and ongoing treatments. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common injuries among restaurant workers:
Burns
Restaurant workers have to work around fryers and stove tops frequently throughout their shifts, increasing their risk of getting burned. For example, if a restaurant worker stands too close to a fryer and hot liquid hits his or her skin, that worker can suffer burns. Minor burns can typically be treated onsite and don’t require ongoing treatment. However, if the burn is severe, it can cause scarring and even be life-threatening.
Sprains and Strains
Restaurant workers often have to lift heavy items at work, which can strain their back, neck and other body parts. They can also suffer these injuries from slipping and falling on slippery floors. Water and other liquids frequently get spilled in the kitchen of a restaurant and don’t always get cleaned up as quickly as they should, putting employees at risk.
Cuts
When employees step into a restaurant kitchen, they will be around knives and other sharp objects. If they aren’t careful when using these tools, they are in danger of cutting themselves. While small cuts will usually heal on their own, deep lacerations may require stitches or even surgery. These cuts can also get infected if they aren’t treated promptly.
Eye Injuries
Restaurant workers may suffer eye injuries if splashes from cooking grease or cleaning products get into their eyes. If workers don’t seek immediate medical treatment, they are in danger of suffering permanent blindness.
Injuries from Violent Acts
While most restaurant managers do their best to provide a safe environment for their employees, violence on the job can still occur. If one employee gets angry with another employee and causes bodily harm to that person, serious injuries can occur. It’s important for restaurant managers to have a zero tolerance policy for violence for this very reason.
Getting Compensation for Work Injuries
If you suffered an injury while working at a restaurant, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. This compensation may pay for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages that results from your injuries. However, if you are having trouble getting your claim approved by your employer, you may want to speak to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. He or she may review your case and advise you of your options. You should look for a Hauppauge, NY workers comp lawyer who will work on a contingency basis, so you don’t have to worry about owing yours any money upfront.
An experienced lawyer should understand how difficult it is to suffer an injury at work and want to be there for you. Your should find a lawyer who will review your case for free and help you with the claim process.
Thank you to our generous contributors at the law office of Polsky, Shouldice, and Rosen, P.C. for the information above.