The most common on-the-job injury is back injury. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 38.5% of all workplace injuries related to musculoskeletal conditions affect the back. Having a back injury at work can be an extremely serious threat, so you should learn how to protect yourself.
What To Do After a Workplace Back Injury?
If you’ve had a back injury at work, you should notify your boss right away. Although you may be worried about the administrative procedures, you should seek immediate medical attention if you have been gravely hurt.
Although if you are unsure whether you have been injured, you should report the matter because effects may appear later. Furthermore, if the incident is reported to your employer, he may be able to resolve a safety issue.
If you have a back injury at work, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your company may offer to pay for a visit to a specific doctor, but you should seek independent advice from some other doctor if you believe it is required. You should be honest with your doctor about any prior conditions you may have because this is important information.
You have the right to make a Workers’ Compensation claim after receiving the treatment you require. You should now book an appointment with Siman Law Firm in Los Angeles that specializes in these types of issues. When it comes to navigating the claims process, legal advice can be extremely helpful.
In What ways is Workers’ Compensation Insurance useful?
Medical treatment related to your workplace injury will be covered by workers’ compensation insurance. Depending on your state, you may be entitled to lost wage compensation during the period when you are unable to work. Approximately 66 percent of your actual pay is provided up to a certain amount.
Disability Types Included in Workers’ Compensation
When you lose time from work due to a back injury, you can file a claim under one of four categories. There is a temporary total disability, which is self-explanatory. This is when you cannot go to work at all, but you will be able to return eventually.
Partial disability for a temporary period is another category. It is possible for you to perform some of the tasks in your job description, but not all of them.
Additionally, there is a permanent total disability in which you are no longer able to work for your former employer or any other employer. Permanent partial disability is the final category. A determination of your disability status will be made when your doctor determines you have reached the maximum medical improvement point.
Am I Entitled to Sue My Employer for Personal Injury?
If you are harmed on the work as a result of your company’s negligence, you may not be able to sue your employer for general compensatory damages. Non-monetary damages include pain and suffering, as well as mental anguish.
As it has already been mentioned Workers’ Compensation insurance covers medical expenses and lost income, which would constitute special compensatory damages in a civil case. There are, however, exceptions to any rule, and this is true in the case of workplace injuries. If you are injured as a result of a product liability problem, you may be able to launch a third-party case.
You may be misled if you believe you don’t have a case since employers can’t be sued in workplace injury cases. Before making any final decisions, you should consult with an attorney.
Then there is something you’d want to know regarding third-party lawsuits in the workplace. Before deciding to bring legal action against a third party, you may first submit a Workers’ Compensation claim.
The Workers’ Compensation insurance provider would cover your medical expenses and compensate you for missed wages in these cases. When you take Workers’ Compensation compensation, you are giving up your right to file a civil lawsuit.
If you file a lawsuit, the insurance company will have reimbursement interests in your settlement or judgment. To be reimbursed, they would place a lien on the recovery. This isn’t to say that bringing a civil case isn’t a viable option; it all depends on the magnitude of the damages you can hope to recover.
What Are Some Ways to Avoid Back Injuries?
It’s possible to reduce the incidence of back injuries both on and off the job by taking a number of precautions. When you make an effort to maintain your health, you become less susceptible to injuries of all kinds.
Physical activity is important, and there are certain exercises you can perform to enhance your core and protect your back. Yoga is beneficial on several levels, including strengthening the muscles that maintain the vertebrae.
Regular exercise will assist you in maintaining a healthy weight, which is another crucial component in avoiding back issues. Smoking is a substantial risk factor for back pain since it leads to disc degeneration, in addition to its other risks.
Lower back pain is prevalent among office workers, and there are workouts you can take to help relax up your back when it feels strained. You should endeavor to keep proper posture, and your chair should be supportive enough.
There is a correct way and an improper way to move large objects if your job requires it. Before you engage, take the time to consider the best strategy to posture yourself.
It is vital that your feet face up with your shoulders, and bend your knees whenever possible to relieve back strain. Take advantage of your leg strength to do the majority of the work, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed.