Workplace injuries are more common than you’d think, and one type of injury that occurs frequently is due to overexertion. Overexertion happens when an employee pushes themselves too hard by lifting excessive loads or straining themselves while performing a work task.
Workers at all kinds of workplaces are at risk of these kinds of injuries, including factories, construction sites, and even office workers. If you think you’ve suffered an injury due to overexertion at work, you may benefit from hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer. These lawyers know everything about workers’ compensation law and will be able to guide you through the compensation process.
What is Overexertion?
Whenever a worker performs a task that requires a lot of effort and puts excessive stress on the body, it is referred to as overexertion. If a worker does this frequently, it could result in injury. It could also happen if a worker carries out a task at work without adequate training.
Performing repeated tasks at work also puts workers at risk for overexertion injuries. For example, warehouse workers can experience back strain from lifting heavy loads repeatedly. Office workers are also at risk of developing injuries due to overexertion. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a well-known effect of using keyboards for extended periods of time.
Compensation for Injuries Caused by Overexertion
Workers’ compensation covers injuries that are caused by overexertion. It is a system designed to support employees who are injured on the job. Worker’s compensation covers lost wages, medical bills, and rehabilitation costs. However, the conditions of the claim must be satisfied for the worker to receive these benefits. This is where the role of a lawyer is critical.
The first thing you should do if you’re injured at work is report it to your employer. Failing to report to your employer could result in problems securing compensation later on. Typically, the employer will have insurance to cover workers’ injuries, which is why this report is essential – it is a record of the accident.
The next step to take is to seek medical attention, as your injuries could be severe or life-threatening. A medical assessment will ensure that any injuries that are not immediately visible are diagnosed properly. A medical report also serves to support your claim for workers’ compensation.
The treatment you receive will be covered in the claim and can include costs for medical tests, rehabilitation, and any surgeries that were required.
Permanent Disability Coverage
Sometimes, a worker’s injuries can result in long-term damage, like a lifelong disability. Workers’ compensation provides support for these types of injuries and ensures that the worker receives disability benefits. This will cover any costs for surgeries and rehabilitation to begin with, followed by wages lost as a result of this accident.
Workers can also be compensated for potential earnings if their injuries prevent them from returning to a former(higher-paying) job. Workers’ compensation also ensures that those injured have a shot at finding permanent employment by giving them access to resources that help them reskill and find suitable employment.
Conclusion
To conclude, workers often face significant risks at the workplace. Performing repeated tasks at work can result in injuries due to strain on muscles. Common injuries include back strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, etc. In extreme cases, workers may lose limbs or hurt themselves badly, resulting in permanent disability.
Workers’ compensation ensures that those in such unfortunate situations have a chance to pay their bills and return to work by providing compensation. It is important for workers to remember their rights and contact a lawyer if they ever find themselves in such a situation.