Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us, and while everyone else is playing Cupid, here at Yrulegui & Roberts we are focused on something a bit less romantic—managing (and hopefully avoiding) workers’ compensation claims. It might not be quite as swoon-worthy as a heart-shaped box of chocolates, but trust us, it is every bit as crucial for keeping your business safe from Cupid’s occasionally wayward arrows.
1. “Sweet” Tripping Hazards
You would be amazed at how quickly a mountain of Valentines, candy-grams, and balloon bouquets can turn your office into an obstacle course. One wrong step can lead to an epic (and entirely un-fun) tumble, complete with potential claims for injuries ranging from sprained ankles to concussions.
Our Take: Encourage team members to place deliveries in designated areas—preferably not in narrow hallways or busy walkways. Nothing says “I love you” quite like a clutter-free office.
2. Overzealous Teddy Bear Lifts
Those adorable, oversized teddies might make for a great Instagram moment, but they are less cute when employees strain their backs lugging them around the office. Remember: even giant stuffed animals can lead to real injuries if not handled properly.
Our Take: Gently remind employees that lifting heavy or awkward items (yes, even plush ones) requires proper technique—bend those knees, folks! Or better yet, recruit a colleague for assistance.
3. Slip ’n’ Slide: The Office Kitchen Edition
Valentine’s Day brunch spreads and pop-up treat stations are all the rage. But sticky floors, spilled drinks, and rogue strawberry syrup can quickly turn “love is in the air” into “slip and fall in the break room.”
Our Take: Encourage a quick cleanup culture. Provide plenty of paper towels and cleaning supplies. Trust us, you will be happier preventing a spill-related injury than fishing for band-aids.
4. The Heartbreak of Fraud
Sadly, not everyone is above faking a workplace injury—holiday or not. If you suspect a claim might be less than heartfelt, Yrulegui & Roberts is here to help. Our defense team can investigate, gather evidence, and keep your business from falling victim to phony Cupid’s arrows.
Our Take: Keep solid documentation from day one of any incident. Stay alert to inconsistencies and always consult with legal professionals when in doubt.
5. Get Your Paperwork in “Love Me Tender” Order
It is not exactly a candlelit dinner, but up-to-date paperwork, safety protocols, and training resources are chef’s kiss for preventing claims and costly compliance headaches.
Our Take: Have a plan for reporting and investigating workplace injuries. The more organized your documentation, the smoother your defense will be if you ever face a disputed claim.
When You Need More Than Candy Hearts…
At Yrulegui & Roberts, we may not hand out candy hearts, but we do dish out solid legal strategies to keep employers protected. As a premier workers’ compensation defense firm, we specialize in navigating every twist and turn of the claims process—so you can get back to the real business of making Valentine’s Day memorable (in a good way).
For more information on how to protect your organization, visit us at www.rjylaw.com. Our team is ready to answer your questions, examine claims, and develop strategies to help you avoid a broken heart (or at least an unnecessary claim).
Disclaimer: This post is for general information (and amusement) only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, we recommend consulting with an attorney.
Wishing you a day full of affection—not affliction—from all of us here at Yrulegui & Roberts. Stay safe, stay sweet, and let’s keep those claims at bay so you can focus on the real purpose of Valentine’s Day: too much chocolate, thoughtful gestures, and maybe a dash of Cupid’s magic. Enjoy!
