During the 12 calendar months of 2008, there were 30,000 claims filed in Kentucky by employees who had suffered from either a work-related injury or illness. The employees sought compensation to help supplement the income that they lost due to either a temporary or permanent impairment. Over $700 million was paid out to help these employees and others across the country according to data from the National Safety Council.

It is true that accidents can happen at any time and any place, but many of these accidents could have been prevented if employers had taken further precautions to provide a safe work environment for their employees.

We call it an accident if a worker stumbles and falls. But when you think about how the accident occurred, questions about safety are raised. Where did the employee fall? Was there supposed to be warning signs or safety barriers? Did they stumble because the workplace was not free of clutter? Essentially, should the employer have done something to prevent the accident?

Some employers across the nation are taking a different angle on the issue. Some are looking at their job descriptions and hiring practices to make sure that they are matching the right jobs to the right people to avoid workplace accidents. The Americans with Disabilities Act specifically requires that certain "reasonable" accommodations are made for employees with disabilities.

If you are injured because your employer has not taken the proper steps to ensure your safety, there is help. Attorneys experienced in workers' compensation claims know how to assist you in obtaining the money necessary to help.

Source: bgdailynews.com, "Avoiding work injuries," Robyn L. Minor, Feb. 15, 2012