The workers’ compensation laws govern compensation for injuries arising out of and during employment, and an employer or insurer provides benefits. Generally, claims for occupational injury compensation arise from a long-term workplace injury. Illnesses such as Cancer & RSI (Repetitive Stress Injuries) can also lead to a lawsuit if they result from an accident arising out of and during employment.
What are Occupational Injuries?
Occupational injuries are injuries that occur while an individual is working. Various things, such as slips and falls, can cause them exposure to hazardous materials, or repetitive motion. If an occupational injury compensation claim is filed, the individual was injured while performing their job duties and is seeking financial compensation for their injuries.
Causes of Occupational Injuries
There are a variety of causes of occupational injuries, but in this blog post, we will be focusing on five of the most common:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Overexertion
- Repetitive motion
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Hazardous materials
How do these injuries lead to occupational injury compensation claims?
Many different types of injuries can occur in the workplace. Some of these injuries may be minor, while others can be more serious. Injuries that lead to workers’ compensation claims usually fall into one of two categories: either they are caused by accident, or they are the result of repetitive motion. Accidental injuries are generally the result of a slip and fall, being hit by an object, or something similar. These types of accidents can often be prevented with proper safety precautions. On the other hand, repetitive motion injuries are usually caused by repeatedly doing the same thing.
For example, someone who works on an assembly line might develop carpal tunnel syndrome from repeatedly performing the same task. Both types of injuries can be very costly, not only in terms of workers’ compensation claims but also in terms of lost productivity and missed workdays. That’s why it’s so crucial for employers to take steps to prevent accidents and provide ergonomic equipment to help reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries.
Steps to Take if You’ve Suffered an Occupational Injury
- Seek medical attention immediately
If you’ve suffered an occupational injury, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention immediately. This will ensure you get the treatment you need and can help prevent your condition from worsening. Once you’ve seen a doctor, you should also notify your employer so that they can begin the process of filing an occupational injury compensation claim. You may also want to consult with a lawyer to discuss your legal options and whether you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Notify your employer
If you’ve suffered an occupational injury, you should notify your employer. They will need to know about the incident so that they can fill out the necessary paperwork. They will also be able to provide you with information about your next steps, such as filing a workers’ compensation claim.
- File a workers’ compensation claim
You should file an occupational injury compensation claim if you’ve been injured at work. Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured while working. Benefits can include medical expenses, income replacement, and death benefits. You’ll need to fill out a form and submit it to your employer to file a claim. Your employer will then forward the claim to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
- Be aware of potential scams
Unfortunately, many people will try to take advantage of someone who has suffered an occupational injury. They may try to scam you by offering fake treatments or promising a quick recovery. It’s essential to be aware of these scams to avoid them. If you’re not sure about something, it’s always best to consult with a doctor or lawyer before making any decisions.
- Gather evidence
If you’ve suffered an occupational injury, the first thing you should do is gather evidence. This includes taking photos of the damage, getting witnesses’ statements, and keeping medical records. You’ll need this evidence to file a workers’ compensation claim. Once you’ve gathered all the evidence, you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney to help you file the claim and get the benefits you deserve.
- Get a lawyer involved
If you’ve been injured at work, you should first get a lawyer involved. They will help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and ensure you get the benefits you’re entitled to. They can also help you file a lawsuit if necessary. In addition to getting a lawyer, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Be sure to keep all of your medical records and documentation of your injury, as this will be substantial evidence if you need to file a claim or lawsuit.
- Stay positive
It’s easy to feel down and even helpless after suffering an occupational injury, but it’s essential to try and stay positive. You may be entitled to workers’ compensation, which can help you with medical bills and lost wages. You should also reach out to a lawyer specializing in occupational injuries to see if you have a case against your employer. Finally, try to stay active and engaged in your mental and physical recovery process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a variety of occupational injuries that can lead to California workers’ compensation claims. These injuries can be caused by various factors, including repetitive motions, lifting heavy objects, and exposure to hazardous materials. While some of these injuries can be prevented, others are simply a risk of the job. Employers can minimize the risk of these injuries by implementing safety protocols and providing employees with the necessary training and resources.
You may be entitled to occupational injury compensation benefits if you have been injured at work. Expert attorneys at Pistiolas Law can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and get the benefits you deserve. Contact us today at (844) 414-1768 for a free consultation.
