Slip, Trip & Fall Injuries Workers Comp in South Dakota

Slip, Trip & Fall Injuries Overview

Falls are the leading cause of workplace injuries across nearly all industries. They include slips on wet or uneven surfaces, trips over obstacles or debris, and falls from heights such as ladders, scaffolding, or roofs. Fall injuries range from minor sprains to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fatal injuries, particularly in construction and warehouse work.

South Dakota Workers Comp Benefits

Common Symptoms — Slip, Trip & Fall Injuries

• •Fractures and broken bones (wrists, hips, ankles most common)
• •Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• •Spinal cord injuries and herniated discs
• •Sprains and strains to joints and ligaments
• •Shoulder injuries including rotator cuff tears
• •Knee injuries including torn ligaments (ACL, MCL)
• •Internal organ damage from severe impacts

Key Facts

• ✓Falls account for over 25% of all nonfatal workplace injuries
• ✓Falls from heights are the #1 cause of death in the construction industry
• ✓Slip and fall claims average $20,000 – $50,000; falls from heights can exceed $200,000
• ✓Employers must maintain safe walking surfaces and provide fall protection equipment
• ✓Head injuries from falls may qualify for lifetime disability benefits
• ✓Same-level falls (slips and trips) are more common than falls from heights
• ✓All employers with 1+ employees must carry coverage
• ✓Benefits are 66⅔% of average weekly wage
• ✓South Dakota does not have a state workers comp fund
• ✓Employer selects the treating physician