How Can Real Estate Professionals Become Injured?
As a real estate agent, you know that the job comes with some risks. Some people may fear to arrive at new locations alone, but the truth is that many of the biggest risks are on-the-job injuries real estate agents may not even realize they could face. Real estate agents may also suffer more severe injuries because they may not be as flexible or strong as those who work in more physical fields.
These are some possible injuries real estate agents may face.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
Musculoskeletal injuries often affect the back and shoulders, especially in real estate professionals who perform physical tasks. They may become injured after using a hammer to put a ‘For Sale’ sign out when the ground is stale and hard or even from pulling the signs out. While these may seem like simple tasks, they can also lead to injury.
Musculoskeletal injuries can take weeks or months to heal, and they can impact your ability to continue working in the meantime. You may need to hire an assistant while you recover, for example.
Cuts and Bruises
Lacerations and contusions are common in real estate agents, especially among those who slip or trip and fall. And people who walk through homes in which they are unfamiliar could potentially trip over objects, including rugs and steps, putting them at higher risk for these injuries.
Outdoor and indoor falls can both lead to injuries like this, and some can be more severe than you would initially think. In fact, some may require stitches or surgery to address deep lacerations.
Vehicle Accidents
Real estate professionals spend a lot of time driving from location to location, whether they are showing homes or creating marketing materials. Unfortunately, you may find yourself in a car accident on your way to a worksite.
Common injuries from vehicle accidents include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, whiplash, internal injuries, long-term disability, and other serious injuries, some of which may require surgery or a long hospital stay.
Carpal Tunnel
Carpal tunnel is a more serious issue than most people believe it to be. Professionals who spend a lot of time sitting at a desk filling out paperwork or typing may experience nerve issues in their wrists that can ultimately make fulfilling essential tasks for work difficult and painful. Additionally, individuals with carpal tunnel may require treatment, which could include surgeries, medications, and time away from work.
Animal Bites
There is also a chance that a real estate professional could show up at a home that has a pet. And if an animal feels you are intruding on his or her home, it may bite you. These bites can be severe and can need surgery or stitches for a full recovery.
In severe cases, an animal could also maul a realtor, which can be devastating.
Falling Objects
Some real estate professionals are injured from falling debris, decorations, and other materials. Sometimes, paintings and other items hanging up high can fall on an agent who is showing a home, for example.
Additionally, those who visit properties in the middle of contracted work and remodeling may find themselves at higher risk for these specific injuries because of the construction work going on around them.
If you work for a major real estate company, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation.
offers workers’ compensation for real estate professionals who become injured on the job. Regardless of what kind of injury you face, you deserve fair compensation.
Call our team of legal professionals today to discuss options for your next legal steps. We can help you through the process of filing a lawsuit if necessary.