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Types of Common Work Injuries
Workplace injuries can happen at any time, and they can happen in an instant. Without the help of a workers’ compensation attorney, it can be difficult to figure out how to fight for compensation or if your injury is eligible, but a good way to start is by learning about some of the most common workplace injuries.
Once you know about common work injuries, you’ll have a better idea of how to proceed with your case. Many times, workers think their injury won’t be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, when in reality, their injuries do in fact qualify. These are some of the most common workplace injuries:
- Traffic accidents: Accidents that occur and cause injuries while using a company vehicle or while traveling for work.
- Overexertion: Injuries caused by pushing, pulling, carrying, throwing, holding, or lifting. These are perhaps the most common workplace injury.
- Slip and fall: Falling on a wet or slippery floor, an uneven floor, or on uncleared walkways (such as on ice or snow).
- Fall to a lower level: Falling down stairs, off a ladder, or off a roof.
- Caught in/compressed by: Injuries that typically occur in industrial settings, often involving heavy machinery.
- Workplace assault: When one or more workers are assaulted while on the job.
- Struck by object: When a workplace object like a door, window, wall, or something else injures the worker.
- Repetitive motion: Injuries occurring from repetitive work, including muscle strain or carpal tunnel.
What You Need to Know About Workers’ Compensation Claims
When you’re ready to file a claim, a skilled workers compensation attorney can be very helpful. However, there are still some things that you should be aware of when proceeding.
You’ll need to be aware of the statute of limitations surrounding a work injury, what type of paperwork you need to keep on hand (medical records, incident reports, etc.), and what type of compensation benefits you are attempting to collect (compensation for permanent injury, lost wages, medical reimbursement, etc.). If you have any questions or concerns, a work injury lawyer in Harvey can help.
Filing Your Claim
Filing a work injury claim is somewhat complex, which is why it’s essential to have a workers’ compensation lawyer on your side.
The first step is notifying your employer. This should be done within seven days of the incident, however it is ideal to notify them as soon as it happens. If you receive medical care, be sure to notify medical staff that the injury is work-related, as you may be required to seek treatment from specific doctors or facilities.
Next, the insurance carrier will open a claim for benefits. Based on reports from the employer and doctor, they will determine whether the claim is eligible for compensation.
If it is found to be compensable, the insurance carrier will contact the employer and the injured party to determine the rate of pay that the injured person will receive while out of work. If the claim is denied, however, the injured person will have the option to dispute that.
About Vasilatos Injury Law
Vasilatos Injury Law is proud to serve Harvey, IL clients, as well as all of the Chicago Metropolitan area and residents all over Illinois, and we’re dedicated to working hard to provide you with the legal representation you need.
Our concentrations are workers’ compensation, personal injury, and Social Security disability, and we work with you to make things easier—we’re available for in-home, hospital, and phone consultations, and we also offer flexible scheduling. Our office is convenient to public transportation, but if you can’t make it to us, we’ll come to you.
When you need workers’ compensation in the 60426 area, trust the professional work injury lawyers at Vasilatos Injury Law. We’ll ensure you get the guidance and assistance you need to get your life back on track as soon as possible.
