Among the sectors with the most reported workplace injuries and illnesses are restaurants. Some of the dangers that waiters, waitresses, and other restaurant staff must deal with include slippery flooring, hot work surfaces and ovens, sharp knives, large boxes of food, and even aggressive clients.
The caring and knowledgeable workers compensation attorneys at (800) 435-7542 address the workers compensation rights of waiters, waitresses, chefs, and other staff members who have been hurt or become ill while working at a restaurant. Contact us at (800) 435-7542 to request a free legal consultation.
Most Frequent Occupational Accidents Among Waiters, Waitresses, and Waitstaff
There are many different types of workplace injuries that waiters, waitresses, and other waitstaff may have. On damp surfaces, spills, or cluttered areas, workers in the food service industry are at a significant risk of slipping or falling. In fact, slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of job injuries in restaurants.
Hot food, scalding beverages, and scorching equipment are frequently used by waitstaff, all of which can result in serious burns. In addition, waitstaff frequently uses knives and other sharp objects to make food, putting them at risk of cuts and abrasions.
Joint strains, sprains, and back pain and damage can result from the physical demands of lifting food cartons or carrying trays, as well as from bending and standing for extended periods of time. Due to the repetitive nature of their work, repeated motions like pouring and lifting can also result in strain injuries to the arms and shoulders, in addition to stress-related injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or lower back discomfort.
Sadly, customers may also physically harass or abuse waitstaff, a problem that has become exponentially more common since the outbreak.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Waiters, Waitresses, and Waitstaff
If a waiter, waitress, or waitstaff member is hurt at work in California, they are eligible to workers’ compensation payments. Restaurant employees are entitled to reasonable and necessary medical care for work-related illnesses and accidents. This can cover copays for prescription drugs, hospital stays, surgeries, and other related medical costs.
If a waiter, waitress, or restaurant employee is unable to work for longer than three days due to a work-related illness or injury, they are eligible to temporary disability compensation. These benefits are normally equal to two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly income, up to a maximum amount stipulated by law, and are intended to partially replace lost wages.
A restaurant employee may be eligible for permanent workers compensation disability benefits if their work-related illness or injury results in a permanent impairment. The amount of the payment depends on the severity of the disability and other circumstances.
Workers’ Compensation Lawyers for Waiters, Waitresses, and Waitstaff
Restaurant workers must seek medical assistance right away and notify their employer of their injuries as soon as they can. While the workers’ compensation system can be complicated and challenging to understand on one’s own, it is especially necessary for waitstaff to contact with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney if they are hurt while working as a waitress, waiter, or other restaurant employee.
Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 now for a free legal consultation.