Injuries and illnesses at the workplace are relatively common with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stating that 2.7 million such cases were reported by employers in 2020. Workplace injuries can occur in many different situations with some of the most common types of work injury being the following:
- Slips, Trips and Falls: This is one of the most common types of workplace injury and can often arise due to slippery surfaces, uneven or loose flooring and poor lighting. Such accidents can lead to fractured bones, dislocated joints, torn ligaments as well as spine and nerve damage.
- Being Struck By Moving Objects: These types of injuries are commonplace on construction sites, as workers can be struck by swinging, falling and flying objects resulting in severe injuries.
- Overexertion and Muscle Strain: This can result from repetitive movements which may lead to issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive strain injury or RSI and injuries from excessive physical effort such as pushing, pulling and lifting.
- Electrocution: Exposed or faulty wiring equipment, such as cords and electrical outlets can cause electrocution and death.
- Transportation Incidents: This relates to injuries from vehicles commonly used in the workplace including cars, delivery trucks and forklift trucks.
Under the workers’ compensation scheme workers are entitled to compensation if they have been injured or become ill as a result of their job. Some of the benefits they may receive include medical treatment, rehabilitation, disability benefits and lost wages.
The aim of the scheme is to provide workers with a safety net and ensure they are supported in the event of an injury. It also acts as a shield for employers protecting them from legal claims. This article will look at some of the things to consider if you have been injured at work and are looking to file a workers’ compensation claim with your employer.
Seek Legal Advice
If you are wondering whether to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer to help you with your claim, bear in mind the scheme is funded by your employer’s insurance company and they may resist your claim or the number of benefits you are entitled to. They may also dispute your version of events and attempt to undermine the evidence you put forward in support of your claim.
In these situations, it is recommended that you consult a workers’ compensation lawyer who will be able to help protect your rights and help you receive the benefits you are entitled to. The following scenarios are examples of when you should consider seeking legal advice:
- Your claim is denied
- Permanent disability benefits are disputed
- You face retaliation from your employer
- Your benefits fail to cover your medical costs and lost wages
- You are expected to return to work
- You have a third-party claim
- You don’t understand the process
In these cases, an experienced lawyer can help you reach a settlement with your employer’s insurance company.
Report Your Injury To Your Employer
In all cases, it is advisable to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Acting swiftly will not only improve your chances of receiving the benefits you are entitled to sooner but will also make it more difficult to disprove your injuries.
With the information in this article, you can now successfully navigate your way through your workers’ compensation claim.
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