More workplace injuries in retail than in other Texas industries
Feb 4, 2020
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently reported that workers in the retail industry in Texas suffer more occupational illnesses and injuries than workers in all other sectors in the state’s private sector. With workers’ compensation insurance being optional for employers, there are likely thousands of victims of workplace injuries each year who are left with medical bills, lost wages and unanswered questions. However, the Division of Workers’ Compensation of the Texas Department of Insurance reports a significant number of claims from workers in the retail industry.
The Division of Workers’ Compensation says injuries like tears, strains, sprains and overexertion are common claims filed by retail workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, analysis of 2018 injury data and lost workdays revealed that 17,700 transportation workers suffered work-related illnesses or injuries, 12,300 construction workers, and 20,400 workers in manufacturing. Compared to these, approximately 33,200 retail workers suffered occupational injuries or illnesses.
A spokesperson for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration says contributing factors to the high number of retail injuries include extended workdays, longer work schedules, crowd stress and irregular shifts. These often lead to sleep deprivation or disorders, which in turn cause more workplace accidents. Slips, trips and falls, and falls from ladders are frequent causes of injuries in this industry.
Victims of workplace injuries in any industry in Texas can get their questions answered by a personal injury attorney who is experienced in dealing with injured workers with concerns about workers’ compensation. Legal counsel can assess the circumstances and then explain the available options. If there are grounds for legal action, the lawyer can advocate for the injured worker in a personal injury lawsuit against an employer with no workers’ comp coverage, or a third party claim if someone not linked to the employer with insurance coverage caused the injury.
