Workers’ compensation is a crucial aspect of modern labor systems, designed to protect employees and employers when workplace injuries or illnesses occur. Understanding the most frequent types of claims not only helps companies improve safety but also empowers workers to be aware of potential risks and the importance of timely reporting. 

1. Overexertion Injuries

Overexertion injuries consistently rank as the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims across numerous industries. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), overexertion accounts for nearly 33% of all workplace injuries requiring days away from work annually.

These injuries most commonly result from excessive physical effort—such as lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, carrying, or throwing objects. They commonly occur in occupations requiring manual labor, such as construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and healthcare. 

PREVENTION

• Provide proper training on lifting mechanics,
• Invest in mechanical aids (like dollies or hoists)
• Promote a culture that prioritizes safety over speed

INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Business owners should be aware that work-related musculoskeletal injuries can result in claims that cover medical treatment, rehabilitation, and compensation for temporary or permanent disability. 

2. Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most preventable workplace accidents. They can happen in any environment, from offices with cluttered walkways to outdoor sites with uneven terrain. They resulted in a total of 885 fatal work-related injuries in 2023.

These injuries range from minor bruises to severe fractures and traumatic head injuries. Common causes include wet floors, loose carpeting, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, exposed cords, and inadequate footwear, etc. Occupational settings most affected include food service, construction, healthcare, and retail.

Preventive measures include maintaining clean and dry floors, using clear signage for wet areas, regular inspections, and enforcing proper footwear policies.

PREVENTION

• Maintain clean and dry floors
• Use clear signage for wet areas
• Partake in regular workplace safety inspections
• Enforce proper footwear policies

INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS

As a business owner, slip and fall incidents can result in significant claims for medical care, rehabilitation, and lost wages. 

3. Struck By or Caught In/Between Objects

Being struck by or caught in/between objects is a hazard in workplaces that involve heavy machinery, vehicles, or moving equipment. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies “struck by” and “caught in/between” as two of the “Fatal Four” leading causes of death in construction.

“Struck by” injuries occur when a worker is hit by an object—such as falling tools, swinging equipment, or moving vehicles. “Caught in/between” injuries happen when someone is crushed or pinched between equipment or collapsing structures. Construction, warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics are the sectors most at risk.

PREVENTION

• Employee training on Struck By and Caught In/Between accidents
• Use of guards and barriers
• Careful equipment maintenance, and
• Adhering to lockout/tagout procedures

INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS

As a business owner, it's important to recognize that severe injuries from struck by or caught in/between incidents may lead to substantial long-term care needs for affected employees. Workers’ compensation coverage can help protect your business by supporting medical expenses and wage replacement in these situations.

4. Repetitive Motion Injuries

Repetitive motion injuries, also known as cumulative trauma disorders, arise from performing the same motion repeatedly over time, leading to tissue damage and pain. According to the BLS, repetitive motion injuries accounted for approximately 30,000 cases in private industry in 2023.

These injuries commonly affect wrists, elbows, shoulders, and knees. Jobs involving prolonged typing, assembly line work, or scanning groceries are particularly susceptible. Common conditions include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis.

• Rotate employee tasks
• Design ergonomic workstations,
• Introduce regular breaks
• Offer employees stretching programs

5. Workplace Vehicle Accidents

Vehicle-related accidents are a significant source of workers’ compensation claims, especially in industries reliant on transportation or heavy equipment. The NSC estimates that over 40,000 work-related motor vehicle injuries occur annually in the United States.

Common vehicle accidents include crashes involving delivery trucks, forklifts, or construction vehicles, as well as pedestrian injuries caused by workplace vehicles. Causes range from distracted driving and fatigue to poor vehicle maintenance and lack of safety training.

PREVENTION

• Enforce strict driving policies
• Require regular vehicle inspections
• Provide comprehensive safety training 

INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Vehicle-related workplace accidents can result in significant injuries and long-term disability. Workers’ compensation insurance provides essential protection, covering medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and wage replacement for injured employees.

Insurers often evaluate the employer’s vehicle maintenance protocols, driver training programs, and adherence to safety policies when assessing risk and setting Commercial Auto premiums. 

Understanding the five most common types of workers’ compensation claims reveals key trends and opportunities for improvement in workplace safety. These statistics show that that injuries span across all industries, affecting millions of workers and costing billions in claims and lost productivity.

Prevention hinges on education, proper equipment, vigilant maintenance, and a workplace culture that values safety above all. 

By staying informed and attentive, both employees and employers can contribute to safer, more productive workplaces—ultimately reducing the frequency and severity of workers’ compensation claims across the board.