Workplace injuries can happen in a split second, but the consequences often last a lifetime — especially when the injury is severe. For injuries that result in claims over $250,000, the stakes are incredibly high.
The workers affected by these accidents not only face extensive medical treatments but also endure long periods of lost wages, physical pain, and emotional suffering. In New York City and across the U.S., injured workers are entitled to workers' compensation benefits that pay for their medical expenses and lost wages. If negligence was a factor, they may be owed even more money.
According to a new study by insurance researchers, the following are some of the most expensive and devastating injury claims. If you sustained any of these injuries or were otherwise hurt on the job, our New York workers' compensation lawyers can help you understand and protect your right to maximum compensation.
The 5 most expensive workplace injuries
When looking at the most expensive injury claims in the workplace, researchers at Travelers found that these five types of accidents stand out as the top drivers of costs exceeding $250,000:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls may sound minor, but the reality is far different. These accidents often result in severe injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. Whether you fall from a height or slip on a slick surface, the medical bills can pile up quickly—surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation are often required.
Overexertion
Overexertion injuries happen when workers push their bodies beyond their limits, leading to conditions like herniated discs, muscle tears, and severe strains. These injuries can cause long-term or permanent disabilities, preventing workers from returning to their jobs. Overexertion claims tend to be costly because of the extended recovery times and the need for surgery, rehabilitation, or ongoing pain management.
Being Struck by an Object
Being struck by a heavy or falling object can lead to severe head trauma, fractures, internal injuries, and even death. Construction and industrial jobs, in particular, carry high risks of these accidents. These types of claims can be highly expensive due to the emergency care required, lengthy recovery periods, and possible lifelong impacts like brain damage.
Work-Related Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents on the job can range from delivery drivers to heavy equipment operators involved in a collision. These accidents can lead to a wide array of injuries, from whiplash and broken bones to catastrophic injuries like paralysis. Due to the complexity of such cases—especially if third parties are involved—these claims quickly escalate into the most expensive category.
Caught-In or Caught-Between Hazards
Caught-in or caught-between accidents occur when a worker gets trapped between heavy machinery or objects. These are some of the most devastating injuries, often leading to amputations, crush injuries, or even fatalities. The recovery process for such severe injuries is long and painful, often requiring multiple surgeries, prosthetics, and a lifetime of medical care.
When a work injury results in a claim exceeding $250,000, the insurance companies that fund workers' compensation benefits become highly protective of their bottom line. Insurers will go to great lengths to reduce or deny claims that could cost them a significant payout.
Why workers’ compensation insurance companies fight high-dollar claims
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim after a severe workplace injury is challenging, especially when you’re up against an insurance company determined to minimize your payout. This is where an experienced workers' compensation lawyer becomes invaluable. Here’s how a lawyer can help you:
- Proving the full extent of your injuries
- Challenging the insurance company's claims
- Handling the claims process efficiently
- Negotiating a fair settlement
At Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP, our NYC workers' compensation lawyers understand how devastating workplace injuries can be, both physically and financially. We know the tactics insurance companies use to reduce or deny high-dollar claims, and we won’t let them take advantage of you.
With over nine decades of experience protecting the rights of injured workers in New York, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle every aspect of your work injury claim. If you were injured while on the job in New York, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits and other potential forms of compensation.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you.
“The firm treated me with respect and dignity and handled all my workers comp issues with ease. I highly recommend them. Thank you.” - Eduardo D.