Filing Claims for Injuries in Warehouse and Logistics Jobs Across Pennsylvania

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023. In Pennsylvania, the rate of cases involving days away from work was 0.9 per 100 full-time workers. Of these injuries, many were in the warehouse and logistics industries due to the higher risks associated with them.

When someone is injured at work, most claims fall under workers’ compensation insurance. In some instances of negligence, injured workers may be able to file a personal injury claim against third parties. Each case is unique, and circumstances vary. Due to this, it’s impossible to know if your specific case could have a personal injury claim associated with it.

Keep reading to learn more about these types of situations. Or contact Carmody and Ging Injury & Accident Lawyers if you want to request a free case evaluation. We can hear the specifics of your injury and offer personalized legal advice.

Why are warehouse and logistics jobs at a higher risk for injury?

Warehouse and logistics jobs are typically in high-stress environments with heavy equipment, hazardous chemicals, or physical demands. We’ve outlined the reasons these jobs are higher risk for injuries below:

Heavy equipment

Heavy equipment is often used in warehouse and logistics jobs. Equipment can malfunction or be used incorrectly, making it incredibly dangerous for those around it. Some environments are crowded, making accidents more likely to happen.

Repetitive motions

Repetitive motion injuries are one of the top reasons for workers’ compensation claims. This is because repetitive motions are common across a lot of industries. Examples include packing and lifting.

Fast-paced environments

Warehouse and logistics jobs are typically demanding roles. They have high-performance targets, continuous monitoring, and there are a lot of people moving about. Because of these reasons, it can make for a more at-risk environment.

What injuries are most common at warehouse and logistics jobs?

All types of injuries can happen in the workplace. There are a few that are more common in warehouse and logistics jobs, including:

Repetitive motion injuries

As discussed above, repetitive motion injuries are very common in this type of setting. The symptoms associated include:

• Tingling or numbness
• Reduced range of motion
• Reduced flexibility
• Tenderness or pain
• Loss of strength

Repetitive motion injuries can impact all areas of a person’s life.

Traumatic brain injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be incredibly difficult for a victim to navigate. The injuries range from concussions to contusions to brain bleeds. Examples of related symptoms include:

• Confusion
• Memory issues
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Poor balance
• Vision or hearing loss

TBIs can take weeks to months to heal.

Back or neck injuries

Due to the nature of warehouse and logistics jobs, back or neck injuries are common. Constant bending or lifting can have a negative impact on the spine. Back and neck injuries can range from mild to permanent.

Falls

Uneven floors, spills, or other items in walkways may contribute to falls. A fall can cause a host of injuries that may take a while to recover from.

Workers’ compensation and workplace injuries:

Many people are unsure how to navigate a workplace injury. Some may avoid reporting it due to fear, but it should be reported anyway. Most employees in Pennsylvania are covered under workers’ compensation insurance from the first day of work (limitations do apply). Read more below about how to file a claim after reporting an injury to the employer:

Steps related to filing a claim:

Report it to the employer

In Pennsylvania, workers have a statutory requirement of 120 days to report an injury to their employer. However, the sooner an injury is reported, the sooner benefits can begin. It’s recommended to do this within 24-48 hours. The first seven days of disability are not paid unless it lasts longer than 14 days. Notice should be given within 21 days to preserve full retroactive wage benefits from the date of injury (though, as noted, notice is legally allowed up to 120 days).

Seek medical care

It’s important to seek medical care for the injuries as soon as possible. Some employers have a list of approved medical providers that employees may be required to see (if the list is properly posted and acknowledged for up to 90 days) for workers’ compensation injuries. Injured workers are encouraged to complete all treatment plans and attend follow-up appointments.

Document everything

Injured workers are also encouraged to document all medical appointments and interactions. Keeping detailed records will be beneficial if a personal injury claim is filed.

Benefits available:

In Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation benefits cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Death benefits
• Total or partial disability
• Specific loss benefits

It’s impossible to say the exact benefits available for an injury without knowing the details. Please reach out to a personal injury attorney to learn your legal options.

Can a personal injury claim also be pursued?

It’s possible, but it depends on the circumstances. If an accident was due to negligence from someone other than the employer, the injured may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. Read more below:

Who may be liable?

If a third party was negligent and directly caused the injuries sustained, they may be liable. Examples of potentially liable parties include:

• Equipment manufacturers
• Contractors
• Subcontractors
• Distributors or retailers
• Equipment designers

Each case is unique, so it’s recommended that you speak to an experienced attorney to understand your legal rights.

What damages are available?

It depends on the injuries and the case specifics. We recommend you speak to an experienced attorney to learn more about whether compensation is available for your injury.

What must be proven?

It must be proven that a third party’s negligence, or a defective product, resulted in the injuries sustained. It must also be proven that those injuries resulted in damages. This can be incredibly nuanced and difficult in some cases. If you’re struggling with gathering proof for a personal injury claim, we want to help. Contact Carmody and Ging Injury & Accident Lawyers to request a free consultation.

How can a personal injury lawyer help?

Experienced personal injury lawyers understand the process and help clients through it. They provide compassionate, insightful legal advice to give their clients peace of mind. Attorneys also manage cases, gather evidence, and strengthen cases to give their clients their best chance.

A dedicated personal injury attorney advocates for their clients and represents them in court. They also negotiate with insurance companies on their behalf. It’s encouraged that anyone facing a personal injury claim from a job injury speak to an attorney. They can tell you the available legal options for your case specifics.

Contact Carmody and Ging Injury & Accident Lawyers today

A workplace injury can be devastating for victims. Not only are they navigating loss of wages and healing from an injury, but also possibly dealing with a personal injury claim. These situations can become daunting quickly. That’s why the team at Carmody and Ging Injury & Accident Lawyers offers free consultations. Allow us to evaluate your case and educate you on the legal options available. Contact us today to request yours.