Workplace injuries are more common in some professions than others. Also, these injuries can occur anywhere. In some work environments, workplace injuries are common. You must be aware of what constitutes a workplace injury to understand its implications.
What is workplace injury?
Workplace injuries are inevitable. According to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), slips, trips, and falls are workplace injuries. Falling due to a slippery surface is also a workplace injury. In such a case, an employee may break their bones, twist ankles, or strain muscles.
Likewise, tripping due to an obstacle in the workplace is also workplace injury. Obstacles can be anything from wires to boxes. Anything that leads to the poor health of a worker is considered as such.
In addition to this, sitting too long at the desk leads to poor posture, which leads to chronic pains. These include back pains, headaches, poor eyesight, etc. These are ergonomic injuries, according to Chron.
Due to poor electrical wiring or mishandling of electrical equipment, employees may be exposed to electrical shocks. This type of injury is also a workplace injury. Apart from this, burning injuries at the workplace due to mishandling of chemicals (including cleaning detergents) cause a workplace injury.
Visit this article by the Chron for more information regarding various types of workplace injuries.
What does the law say about workplace injury?
Before the nineteenth century, workers were not compensated for injuries. However, with time, employees were granted compensation in case of an injury.
Workers are advised, as per the OSHA website, to be aware of their rights at the workplace. Workers must have the appropriate safety and health training. Moreover, they must have access to safety equipment (gloves, harness, helmets) if they work at a high-risk facility. They should operate machines that are safe and must have protection from toxic chemicals. Employees also have the right to report a workplace injury.
In case of a workplace injury, workers can file a complaint at the OSHA website. Visit this link if you would like to file a complaint regarding the poor working conditions at your workplace. The website also provides a list of workers’ rights.
According to the law, coverage for injuries and illnesses is provided only if it happens during employment when the employee was working on the job when the injury took place. The benefits that employers must provide to employees in case of a workplace injury are as follows:
Medical
Employers must pay for the medical bills. Compensation for occupational illness may cover the full amount or a fraction of the total amount.
Income Replacement
A workplace injury may make it difficult for an employee to work for a brief amount of time. During this, they may not be able to afford their expenses. Hence, employers are liable to cover for salary during this time. The amount of compensation depends on various factors, including the disability, whether it is temporary or permanent.
Survivor’s Benefit
If a workplace injury leads to death, the employer is liable to provide benefits to the dependents of the deceased. These include spouses and dependent children. In addition to this, the employer covers the funeral expenses.
Rehabilitation
In many cases, a victim requires treatment to make a full recovery. The employer must provide compensation to the victim to heal so that they can be healthy again.
You can check this link for more information regarding the benefits afforded to employees in a workplace injury.
How can a lawyer help you in case of workplace injury?
In any of the cases, you require the assistance of a lawyer to get the compensation you deserve. Moreover, a lawyer can help you deal with the insurance company to obtain your claim. Here are a few reasons why you should hire a personal injury lawyer for a workplace injury on burwellnebout.com.
1. Compensation
In an extreme injury, you may have to go to the hospital for treatment. In some cases, you may not be able to afford the hospital bill and other charges. A lawyer can help you seek compensation (from your employer) and ensure that you are paid duly for your physical and emotional turmoil. In addition to the hospital bill, you may also have to seek remuneration for lost wages during the period of your injury and healing process. For more information, you can check Joye Law Firm.
2. Negotiation
A personal injury lawyer also negotiates with the insurance company on your behalf. Most of the time, insurance companies are looking for their benefit, and they will avoid giving maximum benefit to the person injured. A lawyer negotiates on your behalf and ensures that you get the compensation that you seek. Lawyers are experts at handling insurance companies, as they know the ins and outs of the business. Hence, they are in a better position to manage any settlement offers.
3. Saves you effort
No matter the scale of your workplace injury, there is no doubt that it leaves one in some difficulty. It may take you some time to get back on your feet. While you recuperate, your lawyer will perform the necessary action. You may not be aware of the process of filing for compensation for a workplace injury. It will take you some time. However, with expert help, you can get the process rolling in no time at all.
4. Compiling documents
A lawyer is aware of the various legalities of dealing with an insurance company. Moreover, they can help you get a good deal. If you are injured, the lawyer will file a claim with the employer on your behalf. They will also collect the documents required for filing the claim. These documents include a report from the medical professional, the hospital bill, and other documents. They will also keep track of these files and correspondence with your employer.
5. Expert advice
Lawyers are aware of your rights in a workplace injury. Hence, they work to ensure that your rights are protected. Moreover, they have the knowledge and expertise to deal with such a case. A lawyer can provide expert legal advice regarding the claim you make. In addition to this, they prepare a case to ensure that you get compensation for your suffering.
Conclusion
A workplace injury can happen to anyone. You should be aware of your rights and what direction to take in case of an injury. Knowing your rights and privileges during such an incident is essential for your well-being, both physical and emotional. Consulting a lawyer can help you with all of this.
