Google ScreenedCan I Collect Workers’ Compensation for a Power Tool Injury?
Power tools are used daily in construction, manufacturing, and other industries. They are efficient, but that convenience comes with a significant risk of workplace injuries. That is a serious concern in workplaces and often causes physical harm, emotional distress, and piles of medical bills. Power tool injuries can qualify for Workers’ Compensation, depending on the circumstances.
Which Power Tools Cause the Most Injuries?
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), power tools are categorized as follows:
- Electric tools, including nail guns
- Hydraulic tools, such as jacks
- Liquid fuel tools, like gas-powered chain saws, brush cutters, and concrete saws
- Tools powered by compressed air: chippers, drills, hammers, sanders
- Portable abrasive wheel tools that have wheels for buffing, cutting, grinding, or polishing
Power tools are a leading cause of U.S. construction worker injuries, and more than 20 percent are related to nail guns. Power tool injuries in this country cause about 400,000 ER visits annually. The most common power tool injuries are electric shock, eye injuries, lacerations, amputations, and puncture wounds.
Power Tool Injuries and Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ Compensation is an important safety net for employees who sustain workplace injuries. It provides financial assistance for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages. This insurance is designed to help employees get the support they need to recover and return to work. Even with a Workers’ Compensation plan, an insurer or employer may attempt to deny coverage to an injured employee.
Workers’ Compensation usually prevents employees from suing their employers since the plan protects companies from lawsuits. However, you might be able to file a personal injury claim against a third party, like a subcontractor or manufacturer.
What Are Common Reasons for a Claim Denial?
There are several reasons why workers are denied coverage. If the accident occurred while the worker was off-site and off the clock, it would not be considered a work-related accident. Or, if the employee was under the influence or acting recklessly, their claim could be turned down for those reasons. Employees who fill out Workers’ Compensation forms incorrectly or neglect to include important information may receive denial notices and need to reapply.
Contact a Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. About Your Power Tool Injury Claim
Power tool injuries can lead to prolonged recovery times and significant financial burdens for employees. For a free consultation, contact a skilled Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation lawyer at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. Call 888-999-1962 or complete our online form today. Located in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients in Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
