Workers’ compensation is a mandatory system that requires employers to pay benefits to workers who suffer job-related injuries, and to family members of workers who lose their lives on the job. Hundreds of thousands of workers suffer job-related injuries each year, and data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) show that 12 people die at work every single day.
As a result, even though workers’ compensation benefits have declined in recent years, the system still plays a critical role in providing for the needs of injured workers and their families. If you have been injured or lost a loved one on the job, it is important that you fight for the benefits you deserve.
Am I Entitled to Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation provides coverage for employees’ medical bills and a portion of their lost wages, as well as the potential for a permanent disability award – and it applies in more situations than you might think. Some of the most common workers’ comp claims include the following.
1. Overexertion. Overexertion injuries result from lifting, pulling, pushing, and performing other tasks that are more than your body can handle. The U.S. Department of labor reports that these are the single most common form of workplace injury.
2. Slips, Trips and Falls. Many people believe that they can only claim workers’ compensation if they were injured performing their job duties, but this is not the case. If you trip down the stairs or fall on a slippery floor at the office, you may be able to claim workers’ comp. Construction, retail, maintenance, and other workers often suffer fall-related injuries as well.
3. Being Struck by or Colliding with an Object. Many workers suffer injuries due to being struck by falling objects. Construction workers face risks from falling tools, materials, and debris, while warehouse workers often suffer compensable injuries due to items falling from shelves. Workers who collide with moving equipment (such as a forklift) and stationary objects (such as a desk or table) can file for workers’ compensation as well.
4. Vehicle Collisions. Truck drivers, salespeople, and other people who drive for work can claim workers’ compensation benefits if they suffer injuries in a vehicle collision. If your boss asks you to run an errand and you get into an accident, your injuries may be covered as well.
5. Machinery Accidents. Employees who work with heavy machinery face risks on a daily basis. Workers frequently suffer serious injuries due to collisions, getting caught in machinery, defects and maintenance issues, and getting crushed or pinned by heavy equipment.
6. WEAR and TEAR™ Injuries. Some injuries don’t result from accidents, but rather result from repetitive stress over a prolonged period of time. If you suffer from back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or another condition that is related to your job or working conditions, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. Read more about WEAR and TEAR™ injuries.
Speak with a Workers’ Compensation Attorney at Petro Cohen, P.C.
Petro Cohen, P.C. is New Jersey law firm that represents workers who have suffered job-related injuries. If you were injured at work, we can help you claim the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. To speak with one of our attorneys for free, schedule a consultation today.
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