Top Five Garbage Worker Injuries in Chicago

The waste disposal and recycling industry in Chicago is much more dangerous than many realize. In fact, it is one of the most dangerous industries in the entire city. Garbage workers suffer numerous injuries each year, and some of these injuries prove fatal. Why is this industry so dangerous, and what are some of the most common injuries for garbage workers today? More importantly, can a Chicago workers’ comp lawyer help you get the financial support you need after an injury?

Auto Accident Injuries

Many garbage workers either ride on waste disposal trucks or operate these vehicles throughout the day. These workers are exposed to various traffic-related hazards, including those posed by other drivers. A worker might have to step into the road throughout the day to access garbage bins, and this makes them vulnerable to passing vehicles. However, many garbage truck workers are struck by their own garbage trucks in situations involving miscommunication.

Toxic Exposure

Although residents are not allowed to dispose of toxic materials without following very specific rules, some ignore these regulations. In doing so, they expose garbage truck workers to all kinds of toxic, biohazardous, and otherwise dangerous materials. A garbage truck worker might suffer injuries after inhaling airborne toxins or touching materials that irritate the skin. They might also suffer vision problems after dust and other materials get into their eyes. Often, these health issues only manifest many years after initial exposure.

Falls 

A slip-and-fall might seem like a relatively minor accident, but it can have major consequences for garbage truck workers. These accidents can leave workers with traumatic brain injuries, (TBIs), broken bones, sprains, strains, ligament tears, and many other types of injuries. Sometimes, workers fall on solid debris or liquid spilled near residential homes. Sometimes, the garbage itself represents a tripping hazard. In other situations, garbage truck workers fall off moving trucks while riding on the rear of the vehicle.

Electrocutions

According to a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), electrocution represents one of the most common injuries for garbage truck workers in the United States. These injuries might occur when garbage workers slip and fall onto areas with live electricity. Electrocutions are often fatal, leaving families with significant economic and emotional burdens. Death benefits can help surviving family members in this situation.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Finally, many garbage workers suffer musculoskeletal injuries due to poor posture and repetitive motions. Although these injuries might not seem as severe as the others, they can be just as disabling and life-altering. They also lead to legitimate workers’ comp claims, even if they manifest in a gradual manner.

Can a Chicago Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help Me?

A Chicago workers’ comp lawyer might be able to help injured garbage workers and their families. Although some injuries might be more common than others for garbage workers, a wide range of accidents can occur in this industry. Each situation is slightly different, and personalized guidance from a workers’ comp lawyer could prove helpful. Continue this conversation by contacting Connolly Injury Law today.

Source:

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4909843/