Workplace accidents happen all the time, some are minor cuts and scrapes while others can put you in the hospital. When you have an accident at work, worker’s compensation insurance is supposed to cover you for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages you may have incurred from the accident. Here are five common workplace injuries that are reported in Worker’s Compensation Cases:
1. Joint Inflammation
If you are using a body part too much, then it can become inflamed. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Tendonitis are both examples of common workplace inflammation injuries. These injuries usually occur in clerical, construction and nursing populations.
2. Muscle Strains and Sprains
About thirty percent of work-related injuries are strains and sprains. Strains are caused by muscle tearing and sprains happen when ligament are overextended. These injuries can be serious and may take three to six weeks to heal completely. Typically construction workers, landscape workers and police officers are most likely to suffer from these injuries.
3. Cuts
Usually a cut is the result of incorrect use of tools. Deep cuts may require stitches and can be quite uncomfortable. Some people consider taking time off from work to recover from severe cuts due to the pain.
4. Fractures
Many types of workers are susceptible to fractures. Fractures are accompanied by bruising, swelling and pain.
5. Injured Tissues, or Contusions
Contusions are caused by a cut or force applied to a body part. They can swell, decrease that area’s range of motion and cause pain. You should visit a doctor immediately to treat any injuries you sustain. Once a doctor has examined the injuries, they can recommend the best treatment.
The workplace should be somewhere you can safely focus on your job. Be sure to let your employer know if you see something potentially hazardous and follow your job’s posted safety precautions to avoid an injury. If you are injured, and it was not your fault, you should file for worker’s compensation so that your damages are covered. If you have difficulties filing for a claim or need any advice, hire a worker’s compensation lawyer to provide you a consultation such as the New York Workers Compensation Lawyer. They can assess your unique situation and advise you through the process and help you fill out forms properly. Having a lawyer’s assistance gives you a better chance of getting approved for compensation and if your claim is denied, your lawyer can represent you should you choose to challenge the decision.
Thanks to authors at Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen LLP for their insight into Workers Compensation Law.