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Exploring 6 Common Claims That a Chicago Workers Comp Lawyer Can Help With

Posted on August 6, 2023 in

Despite following the safety recommendations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and both employers and employees taking necessary precautions, workplace injuries still happen. On average, there are around 7 million workplace injuries per year. This equates to approximately one worker being injured on the job every seven seconds.

Fortunately, workers’ compensation serves as a safety net for employees who sustain injuries while working. This insurance system is designed to provide financial assistance to workers who are hurt or disabled while carrying out their job duties. The workers’ compensation program operates on a no-fault basis, meaning employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who is at fault for the accident or injury.

While workers’ compensation is an invaluable program that provides protection for employees, the laws and regulations surrounding claims can be complex and overwhelming. If you’ve suffered an injury or disability that you believe is work-related, it’s highly recommended to consult with an attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation cases. These attorneys have the necessary expertise and knowledge to guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you deserve.

When you work with a Chicago workers comp lawyer from a firm like the Duncan Law Group, you can receive personalized advice and representation tailored to your unique situation. A skilled workers compensation attorney will be able to assess the validity of your claim, gather the necessary evidence, and handle the intricate paperwork required to file a successful compensation claim. Additionally, an attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and advocate for your rights, ensuring your workplace accident claims are successful.

Most of the time, when people think about worker’s compensation, they imagine severe on-site injuries that occur in physically demanding jobs. However, what many people may not realize is that worker’s compensation covers a wide range of injuries beyond the obvious. Here, we’ll discuss the six most common types of injuries that are eligible for worker’s compensation.

1. Overexertion Injuries

A woman experiences back pain from a work-related overexertion injury

Overexertion is a common cause of injuries, occurring when a person strains or pulls a muscle or joint or even slips a disc from overextending while lifting, pulling, pushing, or turning an item. While these injuries are most frequently associated with workplaces that involve heavy physical labor, such as construction sites, factories, or medical settings, they can occur in any environment. For instance, overexertion can happen in an office while moving files or at a restaurant while carrying a tray of food.

It’s critical to understand that overexertion injuries can have significant consequences, both in terms of immediate pain and long-term repercussions. You should promptly report the injury to your employer and seek appropriate medical attention to ensure you receive the compensation and care you need for a full recovery. An expert Chicago workers comp lawyer can also help with your overexertion injury claim.

2. Slips, Trips, and Falls

A sign cautions workers about wet surfaces

Slips, trips, and falls are accidents that can happen to anyone, anywhere, and can lead to various injuries, ranging from minor sprains to more severe fractures or even traumatic brain injuries. The causes of slips, trips, and falls are diverse and can occur on any surface.

Indoor areas can become hazardous when wet, causing employees to slip and potentially injure themselves. Loose carpets or uneven flooring can also pose a tripping hazard, leading to falls and injuries. Outside, slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice increase the risk of slipping, especially when proper precautions are not taken.

In addition to the immediate injuries sustained in a slip, trip, or fall, there can be secondary injuries known as bodily reaction injuries. These occur when someone tries to prevent a fall or mitigate its impact. For instance, reaching out to grab something or using an arm to break a fall can result in sprained ankles or fractured wrists.

3. Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries are a common type of injury that can occur from performing repetitive motions over an extended period of time. These injuries can affect various parts of the body, such as the hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Some common examples of these types of injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and bursitis.

In the workplace, these types of injuries are often caused by tasks that require repetitive movements, such as typing on a computer keyboard, using power tools, or assembly line work. Unlike acute injuries that occur from a specific incident, these injuries often result from years of repetitive motion. You need to report these symptoms as soon as they begin, seek medical attention, and notify your employer about the condition. Working with a qualified Chicago workers comp lawyer and documenting the development of the injury and its connection to your work tasks is vital in building a strong case for compensation.

4. Injuries Resulting From Objects

Being struck by an object and struck against an object are common workplace injuries that can happen in any industry. These accidents occur when something falls onto an employee or when an employee falls into something. Although they may sound like minor incidents, the consequences can be severe.

In office and retail settings, objects can easily fall from shelves, posing a risk to employees working below. In factories and on construction sites, heavy machinery or tools may accidentally fall due to improper storage or mishandling. These incidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to broken bones and head trauma. In extreme cases, being struck by or against an object accidents can even lead to wrongful death.

Due to the prevalence of these injuries, they’re often the basis for worker’s compensation claims. If you’ve been injured due to being struck by or against an object, you have the right to file for worker’s compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and any other related costs.

5. Machinery Injuries

A man operates a forklift

Machinery accident injuries are a serious concern in various industries, particularly in construction sites and factories. These accidents can occur due to faulty machinery or improper use, resulting in significant physical harm to workers. However, it’s not limited to industrial settings; even seemingly harmless office equipment like copiers or paper shredders can cause injuries. In restaurants, machinery accidents can lead to burns or scalds, posing a threat to workers’ safety.

Contact a qualified Chicago workers comp lawyer to help determine if you’re eligible to file a claim for compensation related to your injury. Worker’s compensation can help cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other related damages resulting from the machinery accident.

6. Occupational Illnesses

Occupational illnesses caused by exposure to harmful substances or environments are a serious concern in many industries. Workers in various fields can be exposed to dangerous elements such as chemicals, radiation, or dust that can have severe health effects over time.

One common type of occupational illness is respiratory disease. This can range from relatively minor conditions like asthma, which can still significantly impact a person’s quality of life, to more serious ailments like pneumoconiosis. Workers who develop these respiratory illnesses due to their work environment are entitled to worker’s compensation benefits to help cover medical expenses and provide financial support during their treatment and recovery.

Another category of occupational illnesses that can be compensated under worker’s compensation includes illnesses caused by exposure to chemicals or radiation. Numerous industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, involve working with hazardous substances that can have long-term health implications. For instance, workers exposed to asbestos in construction or manufacturing occupations can develop mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Worker’s compensation plays a crucial role in ensuring these workers receive necessary medical care.

Injuries in the workplace are, unfortunately, a common occurrence and can happen to anyone, regardless of their occupation or industry. Whether it’s a slip, fall, specific accident, or an injury that develops over time due to repetitive motions, such incidents can have serious consequences for the affected individual. Therefore, you need to take immediate action if you’re injured at work.

If you believe that your workplace injury entitles you to workers’ compensation, you’ll want to consult a qualified Chicago workers comp lawyer. Navigating the workers’ compensation process can be complex, and an experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance.

When you work with Duncan Law Group, we will assess the details of your case, help you gather the necessary evidence, and ensure you receive the financial compensation and benefits you deserve for your injury. Request a free consultation today to learn more about your rights and possible compensation.