November 14, 2024 | Workers' compensation

Going to work for many people doesn’t present a risk to their health and well-being. In fact, employers are charged with the responsibility of providing workers with a reasonably safe environment. Despite this, workers still do get injured or ill while on the job. This can place a huge financial burden on the injured worker and their loved ones. Fortunately, the workers’ compensation system provides a means through which injured workers can recover financially. Below, we take a look at some of the most common workers’ compensation cases and discuss why injured workers should seek the guidance and assistance of an experienced attorney.

Types of Workers’ Compensation Cases

Workers’ compensation cases vary widely in the nature of the injuries as well as their severity. However, they can be broadly categorized as follows.

1. Accidental injuries

Workers’ compensation cases involving accidental injuries are some of the most common types of cases. They involve cases whereby workers suffer a sudden injury due to an unexpected event while on the job. Incidents that cause injuries may include falls, trips, slips and falling objects. These incidents may be the result of a dangerous condition on site such as faulty machinery, poorly lit workspaces or lack of maintenance. Common injuries suffered by workers include fractures, cuts, lacerations and broken bones.

In many cases, the injuries resulting from the incidents are obvious. The severity of the injuries can range from minor to severe or even life-threatening.

2. Repetitive strain or overuse injuries

These cases involve injuries that have developed gradually due to the repeated use or overuse of certain muscles or joints over time. Some common examples of repetitive stress injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic back pain and tendonitis.  Workers that commonly experience these types of injuries include factory floor workers involved in repetitive tasks e.g. on assembly lines, warehouse workers involved in repetitive lifting and office workers e.g. from typing.

These cases are especially complex to navigate as it can be a challenge to link the injury to a specific event. Expert testimony and comprehensive documentation are required for success.

3. Occupational illnesses

These cases involve illnesses that develop as a result of exposure to harmful substances or work conditions. Some common examples of occupational illnesses include respiratory illnesses caused by exposure to asbestos, skin conditions caused by exposure to irritants as well as cancers related to exposure to toxic substances such as asbestos.

These cases can be complex to navigate because a link must be established between the health condition and the dangerous conditions at work. Strong evidence must be provided to support the case. This may include expert testimonies, medical history and evidence gathered from the work environment.

4. Traffic collisions

It is not uncommon for workers to suffer injuries as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Workers may be injured in accidents occurring on site, such as in the case of construction sites, warehouses, ports and other industrial sites. Workers may also be injured while traveling for work purposes.

It is important to show that the worker was injured while on the job site or while carrying out tasks related to their work. This can present a challenge especially for injuries that occur off-site.

5. Mental health and emotional injuries

The impact of work environments on workers’ psychologies is being recognized. Mental health injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder are now gaining recognition. Workers in environments that result in high stress levels or repeated exposure to traumatic events can now pursue compensation under workers’ compensation. However, navigating these cases can be quite challenging. Workers must provide clear evidence to show that the conditions of their work environment directly resulted or contributed significantly to their condition.

Why You Should Contact A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Help

If you’ve been injured at work, pursuing workers’ compensation benefits will help to ease the financial burden. However, navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging. This is true even for cases that seem straight forward. Working with an experienced attorney can be beneficial in many ways.

• Understanding and navigating complex laws and requirements – workers’ compensation attorneys have an in-depth understanding of the law and its requirements. They will ensure that all relevant paperwork is submitted and all procedures followed.
• Gathering evidence and building a strong case – attorneys have the resources and experience necessary to secure relevant evidence including medical records, incident reports, witness statements and more. They will help you build a strong case and improve your chances of successfully recovering compensation.
• Handling claim denials – it is especially beneficial to work with an attorney when you’re dealing with a claim denial. An experienced attorney will be able to determine the reason for the denial and come up with a strategy to appeal the decision. They will increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
• Maximizing your benefits – Whether you’ve suffered a minor injury requiring a few weeks of recovery or a catastrophic injury with lifelong consequences, it is important to ensure you receive your full benefits. An experienced attorney will fight to ensure you receive the full benefits that you’re entitled to. They will also help you secure any additional benefits.

If you’ve suffered a workplace injury don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, High & Younes Attorneys LLC. Call us now on 402-933-3345 and schedule your free consultation with an attorney from our law firm. We’d be glad to help.

Workers Compensation Representation Omaha