Virginia Factory & Warehouse Accident Lawyers
Experienced Attorneys Fighting for Your Rights in Alexandria, VA
Factory and warehouse workers are exposed to numerous industrial hazards. As a result, their employers are held to high safety standards and their workplaces must be kept in good working order.
When something goes wrong, warehouse and factory employees should be entitled to workers’ compensation. If an employer is bold enough to dismiss safety regulations, however, they may also make it difficult for their workers to access the insurance they are entitled to by law.
If you find yourself in this situation, our legal team at The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC can help. Call (571) 290-2390 to get the compensation you deserve.
Common Accidents in Factories and Warehouses
While factories and warehouses are slightly different work environments, they share many of the same dangers.
With machinery, hazardous materials, and heavy objects, workers are at risk of the following accidents:
- Machinery incidents – Factories especially are filled with machines that require constant maintenance and specific training. If an employee isn’t trained properly or the machine is poorly maintained, injuries can occur.
- Forklift crashes – Anyone who operates a forklift must have specialized training and personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, forklift routes should avoid pedestrians or other workers as frequently as possible, and the vehicles themselves should be inspected regularly. Failure to train employees and maintain a safe environment for forklifts can result in fatal mistakes.
- Pallet rack collapses – This threat is more common in warehouses, but results from improper storage techniques. If a pallet breaks, objects can fall from extreme heights and become hazardous
- Slips, trips, and falls – Across all industries, these are the most common workplace accidents. When workers fall from heights or near machines, the results can be devastating.
- Lifting mishaps – Any worker involved in the manufacturing or storage of goods will have to move heavy objects and materials. Employees should be provided with proper lifting equipment and trained on appropriate lifting techniques. Pushing personal limits can lead to accidents and injuries.
- Exposure to hazardous materials – No matter the size, spills or leaks can pose a threat to workplace safety. Without hazmat plans and materials, workers are at risk of exposure and injury.
If you’ve been injured in any of the above situations and are struggling to obtain workers’ comp benefits, contact our attorneys today.
Workers’ Comp Requirements in Virginia
Because factory and warehouse work is highly industrial and reasonably dangerous, Virginia law likely requires your employer to carry workers’ comp insurance. If your place of work compensates you promptly for your injuries, they are protecting themselves against lawsuits, and you should have the funds you need to recover.
If they deny you benefits or try to sell your injury short, they are in direct violation of the law, and thus opening the door for legal action.
How to File a Claim
Report your injury to your employer immediately, and file your claim with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission within 2 years of your accident. You can file in person, by mail or fax, or online.
If you do not report your injury or illness to your employer within 30 days of your accident or diagnosis, they may have the right to deny your claim. That being said, your employer should act (or at least file with the Commission) within 10 days of this notification.
If they do not, and your claim is documented with the Commission, you may be able to take legal action immediately after the 10-day window.
Delayed or Denied Claims
In the event that you are injured or out of work, you will likely need compensation as soon as possible. If your employer delays or denies your claim, you need to protect your interests immediately.
We're Ready to Help You Today
At The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC, we want to help. Our attorneys have over 75 years of experience handling workers’ comp claims and complaints. From the second you walk into our Alexandria office; we will swiftly and skillfully assist you in securing your future.
To start with a free consultation*, call us 24/7 at (571) 290-2390.
