Working injuries are a fact of life. If you have been injured on the job, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with your injury. This post will take a look at what kinds of on-the-job injuries can be compensated.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive motion injuries are caused by performing the same action over and over again, like typing or using power tools. These injuries can cause pain and swelling in the muscles, tendons, and bones and can ultimately lead to long-term disability if not treated properly. Workers who suffer these types of injuries are typically eligible for workers’ compensation benefits that cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
Occupational Diseases
Occupational diseases are illnesses that develop as a result of working in certain environments or activities. For example, miners exposed to high levels of asbestos can develop mesothelioma as a result of their exposure, farmers exposed to pesticides may develop skin rashes or respiratory problems, welders often suffer from lung damage due to inhalation of fumes, and office workers may develop carpal tunnel syndrome from typing all day long. All of these conditions require specialized care, so it is important that workers suffering from occupational diseases get their condition diagnosed quickly so they can receive proper treatment and workers’ compensation benefits if applicable.
Injury from Workplace Equipment
Workplace equipment such as computers, power tools, forklifts, ladders, etc., can cause serious injury if used incorrectly or without proper safety precautions in place. If an employee is injured due to faulty equipment or improper use of equipment then they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits depending on the severity of the injury. Additionally, employers should take steps to ensure that all workplace equipment is regularly inspected and maintained in order to prevent unnecessary accidents from happening in the first place. Contacting a personal injury lawyer can be especially helpful in these circumstances.
Understanding what type of on-the-job injuries qualify for workers’ compensation is important if you want to ensure that you receive adequate coverage for your injury or illness. Repetitive motion injuries, occupational diseases contracted through work activities or environments, and injuries caused by faulty workplace equipment can all potentially qualify for coverage under a workers’ compensation policy depending on state laws and individual circumstances. Always consult with an experienced lawyer if you have questions about your rights as an employee who has suffered an on-the-job injury or illness!
Author information: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.
