Retail Work Can Be Physically Demanding and Dangerous
In Mississippi, retail employees keep stores running, assisting customers, stocking shelves, and managing inventory. But behind the scenes, many retail workers face serious injury risks every day. Strains, falls, and accidents involving heavy merchandise are just a few hazards that can lead to painful injuries, costly medical bills, and lost wages.
If you’re a retail worker injured on the job in Mississippi, you have rights under workers’ compensation laws. A Mississippi workers’ compensation lawyer at Tabor Law Firm, P.A., can help you secure benefits for medical expenses and lost income after a workplace injury.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in Retail?
1. Strains and Sprains From Lifting Heavy Items
One of the leading causes of workplace injuries in retail is lifting and overexertion. Employees frequently move stock, lift heavy boxes, and restock shelves, often in awkward positions. This can lead to strained muscles, back injuries, and herniated discs.
Workers’ Compensation Tip: If you’ve suffered a lifting-related injury, report it immediately and seek medical attention. Employers may try to downplay these injuries, but you have the right to treatment and wage benefits.
2. Slip and Fall Accidents in Stores
Retail workers often navigate slippery floors, cluttered aisles, and areas with poor lighting. Slip and fall accidents are a major concern and can result in:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries, including concussions
- Back and spinal injuries
Workers’ Compensation Tip: Always document the scene if you fall at work. Take pictures, report the accident, and seek medical care – even if your injuries don’t seem severe at first.
3. Falling Object Injuries From Stocking Shelves
Retail employees often work around tall shelving units and high-stock areas. Merchandise that isn’t properly secured can fall, causing serious injuries like:
- Head and neck trauma
- Concussions and brain injuries
- Fractured hands or fingers from trying to break a fall
Workers’ Compensation Tip: If you were struck by falling merchandise, you may need medical imaging to rule out fractures or internal injuries. Don’t let an employer pressure you to “walk it off.”
4. Cuts and Lacerations From Stockroom and Checkout Tasks
From handling box cutters to working around glass displays and sharp shelving, retail workers face risks of deep cuts and lacerations. These injuries can lead to infections or nerve damage if not treated properly.
Workers’ Compensation Tip: If you suffer a deep cut at work, get medical attention immediately and keep documentation of the injury and treatment.
5. Repetitive Motion Injuries (Carpal Tunnel and Tendonitis)
Cashiers, stockers, and employees working at registers often perform repetitive tasks, leading to:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis in wrists and arms
- Chronic pain in shoulders or elbows
Workers’ Compensation Tip: These injuries may develop over time. If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hands, speak with a doctor and a workers’ compensation lawyer about your rights.
What Should You Do If You’re Injured Working in Retail?
Follow these steps to protect your health and your workers’ compensation claim:
- Report the injury immediately to your supervisor. Delayed reporting can lead to claim denials.
- Seek medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. Mississippi law allows you to choose your doctor.
- Document everything – keep a copy of incident reports, medical visits, and correspondence with your employer.
- Contact a Mississippi workers’ compensation lawyer if your employer denies your claim or pressures you to return to work too soon.
How Tabor Law Firm Helps Injured Retail Workers
At Tabor Law Firm, P.A., we understand how challenging it can be to navigate a workers’ compensation claim, especially when dealing with an employer that puts profits over people. We’ll help you:
- Prove your injury is work-related
- Secure benefits for medical care and lost wages
- Fight claim denials and employer disputes
You work hard. If you’ve been hurt on the job, you deserve full compensation to recover. Contact Tabor Law Firm, P.A., today for a free consultation, and let an experienced Mississippi workers’ compensation attorney fight for the benefits you deserve.
“I don’t have enough positive words to say about Tabor Law Firm. They are an amazing firm with wonderful and caring staff.” — Honaleah M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐