Workplace injuries are a significant concern in Wisconsin. Wisconsin is known for its diverse economy that ranges from agriculture to manufacturing. Attorney Lisa Pierobon Mays sees a variety of work-related injuries in her practice of representing Wisconsin injured workers. Let’s review the most common.

1. Musculoskeletal Injuries One of the most common types of work injuries in Wisconsin involves musculoskeletal disorders. These injuries primarily affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves, often resulting from repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or prolonged physical exertion. Industries such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture are particularly susceptible to these injuries due to the physically demanding nature of the work. Workers may suffer from conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and lower back injuries, which can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability if not addressed properly. The best causational proof that an injured worker can gather with these types of injuries is an accurate position description delineating the work that the worker actually does on the job, which includes pushing, pulling, lifting, bending, squatting, kneeling, and reaching. Also, a good description of the hourly and daily frequency of such exertional activity is important when describing the work completed. Pictures of the machinery, tools, and equipment also helps when describing the work to a doctor and ultimately the Judge.
2. Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries Slip, trip, and fall injuries are another prevalent cause of work injuries in Wisconsin, particularly in industries like construction, retail, and healthcare. These accidents often occur due to wet or uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways. We all suffer through Wisconsin’s snowy conditions when the risk of slip and fall injuries increases significantly. These types of injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures, head injuries, and even fatalities. In Wisconsin, employers are required to ensure safe working conditions by maintaining clean, dry, and well-lit environments to minimize these risks. Moreover, Wisconsin employers are also responsible for keeping outside parking lots and walkways safe for their employees’ passage, even if not owned by the employer. Oftentimes, snow and pools of water turn icy and hazardous, especially if salting and shoveling of snow is inadequate. The best causational proof that an injured worker can gather with these types of injuries is pictures or videos of the hazardous surface. Also, witness statements can help collaborate the dangerous conditions of the area. An Employee Incident Report proving immediate reporting of the fall and injury are important time markers that add credibility of the occurrence happening at work.
3. Machinery-Related Injuries Wisconsin is home to a significant number of manufacturing plants and agricultural operations, where heavy machinery and equipment are commonly used. Consequently, machinery-related injuries are a serious concern. These injuries can result from equipment malfunctions, inadequate safety measures, or lack of proper training. Wisconsin workers may suffer from amputations, crush injuries, lacerations, or even fatalities. The best causational proof that an injured worker can gather with these types of injuries is documentation showing that employers in these industries DID NOT provide adequate training, enforce strict safety protocols, and ensure that machinery is well-maintained and equipped with appropriate safety guards. Pictures and videos of the unsafe equipment or missing safety guards is hard evidence for the employer to defend against.
4. Exposure to Harmful Substances Another common type of work injury in Wisconsin involves exposure to harmful substances, particularly in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and chemical processing. The Wisconsin worker is often exposed to pesticides, industrial chemicals, asbestos, and other toxic materials that can lead to respiratory problems, skin conditions, poisoning, or long-term health issues such as cancer. Proper protective equipment, regular health monitoring, and adherence to safety regulations are essential to minimize the risks associated with hazardous substances. The best causational proof that an injured worker can gather with these types of injuries is pictures and videos of the hazardous chemical in the work setting, spillage, machinery, and clothing prove the carelessness of its application. Also, obtaining the Material Safety Data Shet (known as MSDS) of the chemical substances is crucial to linking up the injury with the workplace chemical. Lastly, listing the safety precautions (or, lack thereof) such as safety googles, respirator, gloves, proper ventilation, etc. can go a long way to proving the dangerous of the work environment that the injured worker was exposed to in the employment.
5. Transportation-Related Injuries Transportation-related injuries are prevalent in Wisconsin, especially in industries such as logistics, construction, traveling employee, and agriculture. These injuries can occur due to vehicle accidents, improper loading and unloading of goods, or falls from vehicles. Given the extensive network of highways and rural roads in Wisconsin, plus hazardous road conditions with our harsh winters, the risk of transportation-related accidents is significant in this state. Employers must ensure that drivers are properly trained, vehicles are well-maintained, and safety protocols are followed to prevent such injuries. The best causational proof that an injured worker can gather with these types of injuries is proof of reporting, such as police reports, dated pictures of the scene showing the damage, a timely filed and descriptive Incident Report given to the employer, and gathering witness names and their contact information with a timely statement of what they saw.
6. Heat and Cold Stress Injuries Wisconsin experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, leading to the risk of heat and cold stress injuries. Wisconsin workers in agriculture, construction, and outdoor maintenance are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. Heat stress can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke, while cold stress can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related injuries. The best causational proof that an injured worker can gather with these types of injuries is proof that the employer DID NOT take steps to protect workers from extreme weather, such as providing adequate breaks, access to hydration, and proper clothing. Also, weather reports and pictures of the reports proving extreme weather conditions are helpful in supporting the injury as work-related. Proof of timely report to the employer (such as a text message, email or an Incident Report) and timely medical treatment are crucial to prove that an extreme weather injury occurred on the job.

In close, work injuries in Wisconsin are influenced by our state’s diverse industries and environmental factors. Musculoskeletal injuries, slip, trip, and fall incidents, machinery-related injuries, exposure to harmful substances, transportation-related injuries, and heat and cold stress are among only the most common types of workplace injuries suffered by Wisconsin workers. If you feel that you have suffered an injury at work that has now been DENIED by your employer’s worker’s compensation carrier then do not hesitate to contact Attorney Lisa Pierobon Mays at Mays Law Office. Phone consultations with her are free! Lisa has earned the authentic 5 Star Google Review Rating because she achieves excellent results for her clients.