Few experiences are more startling than the sudden impact of a tool or piece of debris hitting you at work. In an instant, your day changes from routine to emergency. If a falling object at work has injured you or someone you care about, it's essential to know your rights and how to pursue the benefits you deserve.
The experienced workers' compensation attorneys at Dulaney, Lauer & Thomas understand the physical, emotional, and financial strain a sudden work injury can inflict. Our dedicated legal team has spent decades fighting for the rights of hardworking Virginians just like you. We're here to help you secure the medical care and financial support you need to put your life back together.
What Causes Falling Object Injuries at Work?
Struck-by accidents can happen in almost any work environment, but some settings carry higher risks:
- Construction sites with multiple levels and crews working overhead
- Warehouses with high shelving and busy forklifts
- Factories using heavy equipment and conveyor systems
- Retail stockrooms during busy loading periods
The Sobering Statistics
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, contact with objects and equipment (including falling objects) was among the most common causes of workplace injuries in 2020. Workers suffered over 110,000 struck-by injuries severe enough to require days away from work. These numbers show the severity of falling object hazards and the importance of knowing what to do in the event of an incident.
What to Do if You’re Struck by an Object at Work
Acting quickly after a falling object injury protects both your health and your potential workers' comp claim.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Some struck-by injuries seem minor at first, only to develop into serious problems hours or days later. Consult a medical professional as soon as possible after the incident to evaluate your condition. Be sure to mention that the injury occurred at work.
Provide your doctor with a complete account of how you were hurt and all symptoms you're experiencing, no matter how mild. This creates a clear record linking your injuries to the workplace accident—a crucial piece of any workers' comp claim.
Report the Incident to Your Employer
Inform your supervisor about the falling object and resulting injury before leaving work that day, if possible. Follow up with a written report including:
- The date, time, and location where you were struck
- The object that fell and hit you
- How the incident occurred (if you know)
- Your injuries and medical care received
- Any witnesses to the event
Virginia law requires workplace injuries to be reported to employers within 30 days. However, sooner is always better. Prompt reporting prevents employers from questioning the validity of your claim. If you wait too long, they may argue that your injury occurred elsewhere.
Document Everything
Keep copies of all work incident reports, medical records, and correspondence with your employer and their insurance carrier. Maintain a file with:
- Photographs of your injuries
- Pictures or descriptions of the falling object
- Statements from any witnesses
- Notes on all injury-related events, including missed work and medical appointments
The more documentation you have, the stronger your workers' comp claim will be if the insurance company balks at covering your treatment and lost wages. Gaps in information give insurers room to deny benefits.
When to Consult a Workers' Comp Attorney
The workers' compensation process rarely unfolds smoothly, especially in more complex cases, such as incidents involving falling objects. Consider contacting an experienced workers’ comp lawyer if:
- Your injuries are severe or likely to cause long-term impairment. High-stakes cases need skilled legal representation.
- Your employer denies that the incident occurred at work. An attorney can push back against doubts about the origin and validity of your injuries.
- The insurance company rejects your claim. Workers' comp insurers look for any reason to avoid paying benefits. A lawyer levels the playing field.
- You face retaliation at work for reporting the injury. Employers cannot punish you for filing a legitimate workers' compensation claim. An attorney will defend your rights.
The Virginia workers' compensation system exists to support employees hurt on the job, but that doesn't mean securing fair benefits is easy. Struck-by injuries often receive more scrutiny than straightforward incidents, such as single-level falls. You need to be your own best advocate.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the workers' comp process or encountering resistance from your employer or their insurance company, Dulaney, Lauer & Thomas is here to help. Our knowledgeable Virginia workers' comp lawyers can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. You focus on healing—we'll handle the rest.
