When someone thinks of a workplace accident, the most drastic injuries are the ones that come to mind. Everyone in Louisville has surely heard of someone getting horribly injured on the job, so naturally that is what we think of when we imagine the types of people who are eligible for workers' compensation benefits.

But the fact is, the "everyday" injuries may count for workers' compensation purposes, too. This is because even fairly common injuries, like a back injury or injuries sustained during a fall, can prevent a worker from doing his or her job and may require medical treatment.

Consider this: a recently published survey has found that the average indemnity from a workers' compensation claim in 2010 due to a fall on the job was $17,100.

Workers who hurt themselves after slipping and falling are not expected to just "brush it off" and keep going. We have workers' compensation for a reason.

If you are ever hurt on the job, even if it is an injury you think is no big deal, it would be worth your time to explore workers' compensation. You may be eligible to have your medical bills taken care of and have paid time off so you can recuperate.

Workers' compensation can be a tricky field (a business is not going to give you those expensive benefits just like that, of course) so many people find it helpful to enlist in the aid of an attorney who knows the field.

Source: ABC 50, "Watertown Post Office Seeks Clear Paths for Delivery," Holly Boname, Jan. 20, 2012