Did You Suffer a Back Injury at Work?

Back injuries at work can result from a one-time trauma or over time with the use of the same muscles from repetitive motion. Since the body has an indelible way of trying to heal itself, the effects of a back injury may not be immediately recognized. In other instances, a worker can pinpoint a specific incident that led to a herniated disc, sprain, or strain. In either case, a back injury suffered at work qualifies for Workers’ Compensation so long as the employee takes the proper steps to report it.

What Are the Proper Steps for Documenting a Back Injury?

The best way to handle a back injury at work is to seek medical treatment immediately. This begins the paper trail that may be necessary in proving the ailment can be attributed to work, but it is also important to note that you can collect Workers’ Compensation for a condition that was aggravated by your work duties. Therefore, any type of back injury deserves attention from a licensed medical practitioner. And when it comes to doctors, be aware that you have the right to choose your own doctor. You do not have to go to a doctor who is mandated by your employer or any other entity, such as an insurance provider.

Next, you need to report your injury to your supervisor. Take note that time is of the essence. According to Workers’ Compensation laws, you must report the injury within 21 days of the initial occurrence to receive retroactive benefits, and no more than 120 days from the date of injury, or you may forfeit your right to Workers’ Compensation benefits. Likewise, you have three years from the original date of the injury to file a Workers’ Compensation claim. So, once you notify your employer, you must file a claim with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Workers’ Compensation laws provide three years from the date of the accident or injury diagnosis to submit your appeal. A judge will then decide whether to approve or deny your claim. The decision will likely include testimony from your medical team or the physician treating you.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive?

Since Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, it does not matter who caused your back injury. Therefore, an individual who suffers a work-related back injury can recover finances for short- and long-term medical expenses, including emergency services, doctor visits, prescriptions, and physical therapy.

Additionally, those who cannot work while they are recovering are likely eligible for lost wages of up to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage. If an individual is unable to return to work due to the severity of an injury, they may be entitled to long-term disability, which requires a more robust look at the situation. This also likely requires the oversight of a lawyer who is well-versed in this process and can help guide the conversations to recover the highest rate allowed by law.

What Are the Most Common Types of Back Injuries?

Among the most common reasons for back injuries at work are lifting heavy objects, lifting them improperly, repetitively putting strain on the back muscles, slipping and falling, and failing to move around enough, like sitting in a chair all day. These situations lead to injuries such as herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, spinal stenosis, strains, sprains, arthritis, osteoporosis, and sciatica.

Take Control of Your Situation With Help From the Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C.

Workers’ Compensation can be confusing and tough to navigate, but you do not have to do it alone. Talk to the seasoned Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. about your case. Call 888-999-1962 or submit our online form to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.