More than 6 million employees are injured on the job each year. When an employee falls ill or is injured on the job, there is a system in place that provides benefits to them while they recover; known as workers’ compensation. In order to be compensated by workers’ compensation, the illness or injury must be work related. At times, workers’ compensation claims can be the result of extremely serious injuries that could be fatal. It may be necessary to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney if you are the victim of an injury while on the job. They can help discuss your options and if a workers’ compensation claim is right for you.
Most injuries that happen on the job are covered as all employees are entitled to workers’ compensation, most of the time.
No Fault System
If the injury was the result of an employee being careless, they are still entitled to workers’ compensation. This is because the type of workers’ compensation insurance is considered to be no fault. There are a few exclusions to the no fault system:
- In many states, an employee who has not conducted themselves in an appropriate manner would not be entitled to workers’ compensation.
- Workers’ compensation does not cover employees who are under the influence or are hurt as the result of fighting with another person.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive motion injuries are one of the most typical of workers’ compensation claims. This occurs when an employee has a job where the same motion is repeated. In most workers’ comp claims that occur in offices, repetitive motion injuries are often the result of utilizing a computer keyboard for typing. Most repetitive motion injuries are on the hands and feet and can be rehabbed through rest and exercise.
Exposure to Harmful Toxins
An employee could still be at risk of injury despite improvements in regulations over the year. Some work environments are more dangerous than others. An employee is likely to qualify for workers’ compensation if they develop respiratory issues from being exposed to chemicals in the workplace. Other injuries from harmful toxins are:
- Throat injury
- Neurological Issues
- Burns
- Lung damage
- Skin Rashes
- Brain Damage
When a worker is exposed to harmful toxins they can be susceptible to serious injuries, even death. Discussing your options with a workers’ compensation attorney can help to determine the best way to move forward.
Seeking the advice of a workers’ compensation lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation claims can be helpful if you are injured on the job.
Thank you to our contributors at the Law Offices of Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt for their knowledge about workers’ compensation benefits.