Common Workplace Injuries Suffered by Wisconsin Employees

Common Workplace Injuries Suffered by Wisconsin Employees

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.
Fighting a DUI in Madison, WI: Key Lessons from the Past Year

Fighting a DUI in Madison, WI: Key Lessons from the Past Year

Facing a DUI charge is challenging for many reasons. Not only is the process of defending against a DUI charge challenging in itself, but the additional stress and worry you face during the process can interfere with all aspects of your daily life.

But, if you get convicted, your challenges could be far more significant. Drunk driving charges are serious, and a DUI conviction can negatively impact your life for years to come. With this in mind, if you have a DUI trial scheduled in 2025, you need to start working now to protect yourself.

Resources for Individuals Facing DUI Charges in Wisconsin

We published several resources for individuals facing DUI charges in Wisconsin over the past year. Here is a look back at some of these resources—along with some additional insights on how to protect yourself if you’ve been charged with driving under the influence:

Making an Informed Decision About Your Legal Representation

You will need to make several important decisions during your DUI case. But, one of the most important decisions you must make is also one of the first: Should you hire a lawyer to represent you?

The short answer to this question is “Yes”—and there are several reasons why. But, if you are on the fence about hiring a lawyer to represent you, we encourage you to read these articles to ensure that you are making an informed decision:

Understanding Your DUI Case and All of the Risks Involved

Two of the most important reasons to hire an experienced DUI lawyer are: (i) DUI cases are complicated, and (ii) DUI cases are extremely high-risk. Presenting an effective defense requires a clear understanding of the relevant facts and the relevant law.

Suppose you overlook essential facts or do not comprehensively understand Wisconsin’s DUI laws and the constitutional principles that protect you. In that case, you cannot assert a sound defense. To get an idea of some of the facts and laws that might be relevant to your DUI case, you can read:

Important Facts Most People Don’t Know About Facing a DUI

Another critical reason to hire an experienced lawyer is that there are many facts that most people don’t know about facing a DUI charge in Wisconsin. Did you know that prosecutors don’t need your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to secure a conviction? Did you know that prosecutors can use many other forms of evidence to win a “Guilty” verdict in court? These are just a few of the key facts and common misconceptions we covered in 10 Facts Most People Don’t Know About Facing an OWI in Wisconsin.

Deciding How to Approach Your DUI Case

Since Wisconsin does not have a diversion program for DUI cases, you have two main options when it comes to deciding how to approach your defense: (i) you can seek a plea bargain, or (ii) you can fight your DUI charge in court.

So, which option should you choose?

Generally speaking, seeking a plea bargain is a good option for DUI defendants who do not have a viable path toward avoiding a conviction in court. If you are likely to get convicted of DUI if you go to trial, then it may make sense to plead guilty to a lesser offense or seek a reduced sentence through the plea-bargaining process. To learn more about the considerations in pursuing a plea bargain, read DUI Plea Bargain: Should You Consider a Deal in Your Wisconsin Case?

Deciding What to Do if You Need to Go to Trial

You must fight your DUI charge in court if you decide not to seek a plea bargain. While there are opportunities to seek dismissal of your DUI charge before your trial date arrives, unless and until you get your DUI charge dismissed, you will need to focus on preparing for trial.

Going to trial also involves making several important decisions. Should you request a jury trial? Should you testify? These are just two examples of key decisions you must make in close consultation with your DUI lawyer.

Seeking Dismissal of Your Wisconsin DUI Charge

Once you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, the best-case scenario is to get your DUI charge dismissed. While this isn’t feasible in all cases, there are a variety of potential ways to seek dismissal of a DUI charge in Wisconsin. To learn about some key considerations in seeking dismissal—before or during the trial—you can read: How Do You Get a Wisconsin DUI Dismissed?

Keeping Key Evidence Out of Your DUI Case

One grounds for seeking dismissal of a DUI charge in Wisconsin is that prosecutors don’t have enough evidence to secure a conviction. If prosecutors don’t have the evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, you should not have to stand trial—and you certainly do not deserve to be convicted.

With this in mind, seeking to keep the prosecution’s evidence out of court can be a key defense strategy in many cases. Along with constitutional protections that can prevent the use of all forms of evidence, each type of evidence in a DUI case can be subject to challenge on various specific grounds as well. Are you entitled to have the prosecution’s evidence against you kept out of court? Read How to Keep Key Evidence Out of Your Wisconsin DUI Case to find out.

Contact Us for a Free Wisconsin DUI Defense Consultation Today

While we encourage you to use these resources to learn about your DUI case, there is no substitute for one-on-one legal advice and representation. To discuss your case with an experienced DUI defense lawyer in Madison or Middleton, call 608-291-7609 or request a free consultation.

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