Happy Labor Day from CD Law! Today is more than just an extra day off, Labor Day is our annual reminder to celebrate the people who keep our communities moving: the cooks, drivers, nurses, builders, teachers, caregivers, and everyone else a part of the American workforce who show up day after day and get the job done. As a law firm that frequently helps people recover after workplace accidents and has a growing labor and employment practice group, we also see another side of this holiday which is the importance of workplace safety and workers’ rights.
In case you missed our recent announcements, we’re excited to share that John Giovannone has joined CD Law as a partner, leading our Labor & Employment, Consumer Protection, and Class Action Practice Groups.
John brings more than two decades of experience from top international and California-based law firms, where he litigated complex employment cases and class actions, and advised on workplace disputes. He has successfully tried cases, led mediations, and represented clients before the National Labor Relations Board. His practice spans issues of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, wage and hour disputes, unfair competition, and more.
By bringing John on board, CD Law expands its ability to advocate not only for injured workers but also for those facing labor and employment challenges.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 2023 saw 5,283 fatal work injuries. Private-industry employers reported about 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injury and illness cases in 2023, and employer-reported cases involving days away from work numbered approximately 946,500.
The National Safety Council estimates the total cost of work injuries in 2023 was roughly $176.5 billion, including wage and productivity losses, medical costs, and administrative expenses.
Numbers like these remind us workplace safety isn’t just paperwork, it’s about real people, families, and communities. These numbers should be your reminder to always follow your job’s safety protocol regardless of your industry. These rules and regulations are put in place for a reason, and should never be overlooked. Following these rules is what saves lives, so be that model employee at your workplace. Most Importantly, don’t be afraid to speak up about safety issues you are seeing.
If you’re at work and something feels unsafe, you have options. Federal protections give workers the right to a safe workplace and to speak up without fear of retaliation. If you’re unsure where to start, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) worker resources explain rights and reporting steps.
Miguel Custodio of CD Law says, “Behind every workplace statistic is a person, a family, a story. This Labor Day reminds me why we fight so hard for every case that comes our way. This year, let’s honor workers by committing to safer jobsites, fair treatment, and speaking up in the workplace.”
We help injured workers understand their options, navigate workers’ compensation and personal injury claims, and hold negligent parties accountable so families can get back on their feet. Contact us today if we can help you.
Doing something fun with your day off? Here are safety suggestions from the American Red Cross to ensure you celebrate safely!