Work injury deaths in U.S. occur mainly in auto accidents on highways

Carl Saiontz

By Carl Saiontz
Posted April 8, 2007

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According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), work related deaths in the United States increased by nearly 10% in 2005.  For the fourteenth year in a row, the most likely cause for a work injury fatality was a highway accident.

>>INFORMATION: Workers Compensation

There were 5,702 work related deaths in 2005, which is about 16 every day or approximately 4 out of every 100,000 workers.  Fatal accidents which were related to transportation were responsible for 43% of the deaths, with 58% of those transportation deaths occurring from an auto accident or truck accident on a highway.

The findings were reported in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, based on data from the annual census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI).  Other causes of work injury deaths in 2005 included:

  • being struck by an objects or coming in contact with equipment (18%)
  • assaults and violent acts (14%)
  • falls (13%)
  • homicide (10%) 

>>READ THE FULL REPORT: Work Injury Deaths – U.S. 2005

When an injury or death occurs on the job, workers compensation benefits are often available.  However, if third party is also responsible for the fatality, the family may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit as well.  It is important to speak with a qualified lawyer immediately following a work injury

WORK INJURY LAWYERS

Carl Saiontz is a Maryland workers comp lawyer.  Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represents injured workers hurt on the job in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia and Pennsylvania.  For claims involving wrongful death, our attorneys investigate and review claims in all 50 states.  To speak with a lawyer and review your legal rights as well as the benefits you may be entitled to, request a free consultation.

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