What Should I Do if I Sustain a Back Injury While at Work?
A workplace accident can result in many injuries, but back injuries can be especially complicated and painful. The complex structure of the spine makes it easy for injuries to occur.
Even the simplest movements can cause pain, from lifting heavy items to turning from side-to-side.
The spinal column is made up of 33 vertebrae — 24 move and nine are fused. A number of workplace actions can affect the spine and the surrounding muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and disks. Overuse and sudden movements can cause sprains, strains, or torn ligaments.
Back injuries can lead to acute or chronic pain. Acute back pain goes away after three to six weeks. It may be quite severe right after the injury, but it is temporary. Chronic pain lasts much longer and can even be permanent.
If your back injury occurred during the course of your employment, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation benefits provide wage replacement and medical benefits to injured employees.
If you sustain a back injury at work, you need to take immediate steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Your first step should be to notify your supervisor or employer about the injury as soon as possible.
Even if you feel OK, you should still seek medical attention. Let your doctor know the injury occurred at work, as this ensures the documentation supports a potential workers’ compensation claim.
Document everything, including how the injury happened, any witnesses present, and your symptoms. Keep copies of all related medical records.
Make sure you file a workers’ compensation claim so you get medical coverage, wage replacement, and rehabilitation services while you are unable to work. Your employer should have the appropriate documentation so you can complete and file your claim. Avoid returning to work until a doctor clears you. Your doctor will determine whether you can return to your original job and perform some or all of your regular duties. Some workplace accident victims become totally disabled and unable to return to work at all.
If your claim is denied or if your employer disputes it, you need to protect your legal rights. Consider discussing your case with a workers’ compensation attorney.
Contact Us Today
A back injury can lead to mobility issues and severe pain. Get the compensation you need to get back on your feet.
Seek legal help from an Omaha workers’ compensation lawyer from Andres Law Offices, PC LLO. We handle your workers’ compensation injury claim with poise and professionalism. To schedule a consultation with our office, call (402) 491-4003 or fill out the online form.