Accidents in the workplace can happen to anyone for any number of reasons. However, federal statistics have recently shown that serious injuries resulting from these accidents are more likely to happen to older workers. In some cases, these injuries may even lead to fatalities. In California alone, the rate of fatal accidents for older workers has been about 60 percent higher than that of other age groups.
Doctors claim that the effects of getting older can contribute to injuries that may make recovery more difficult. As people age, their bodies may face several physical changes. Some of these changes may include gradually worsening hearing and vision, reduced balance and response times, and bone problems like arthritis. These issues may affect work performance in some way, which could have the potential to result in an accident.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that many people of the traditional retirement age choose to continue working these days and they estimate that the number will continue to grow. This is not to say that older workers necessarily need more protection than younger workers, though, as people have a varied range of abilities. However, older workers who find themselves injured on the job or families whose loved ones suffered fatalities due to such injuries may find filing for workers compensation benefits.
No matter an employee’s age, those who have suffered serious injuries at work are entitled to file workers compensation claims. When successful, these types of claims can provide monetary relief to the claimant that can help pay for medical bills and cover lost wages an employee may incur following the accident. Anyone interested in learning more about workers compensation could consult an experienced California attorney for more information and assistance.
