By definition, workers’ compensation is a system of insurance that provides benefits to employees that suffer injuries while on the job or in the workplace. Employees receive payment regardless of who is at fault. Within specific states, injured workers cannot sue their employer for their injuries unless the injuries are intentional.
Suppose you sustain an injury while on the job; you must inform your employer and stay calm. If you cannot notify your employer, have a co-worker tell your boss. Don’t delay in seeking treatment either. Workers’ compensation falls under Strict Liability Laws, which means you do not have to prove your employer is negligent. You do, however, have to prove that you suffer injuries during your employment. This aspect gives you plenty of negotiation leverage for securing compensation.
The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan have the resources to help you if your injuries are due to a workplace accident. An Abington workers’ compensation lawyer has your back during the legal process to ensure that you receive the proper compensation. The benefits you have a right to are either medical, temporary disability, permanent disability, or death benefits.
Common Workers’ Compensation Injuries
To qualify for workers’ compensation, an injury or illness must arise in employment. There is a multitude of injuries that are eligible for payment, such as:
- Pre-existing medical conditions that flare up due to a work injury or activity
- Repetitive trauma injuries occur with the performance of repetitive physical motions (for example, carpal tunnel syndrome or rotator cuff tears)
- Illnesses arise due to continuous exposure to harmful substances, chemicals, or toxins
- Injuries that happen while participating in work functions or events
- Injuries that occur from extreme physical or psychological stress
There is a limit to benefits for covering medical expenses and lost wages; you might also be eligible for a claim of loss of future wages. This claim requires proof courtesy of an employment specialist. The payment amount for disability varies depending on the degree of permanency from the injury. Your average weekly salary or compensation are also factors that the specialist considers.
The Abington workers’ compensation lawyers at the Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan have plenty of experience to help you pursue workers’ compensation. We work diligently to protect your right to compensation after suffering an injury on the job.
Steps to Take After a Workplace Accident
It doesn’t matter how much effort goes into enforcing precautions throughout the workplace to prevent injuries; accidents can and still do happen. When you are in a workplace accident, you need to follow a few steps to deal with the situation appropriately.
You should examine the injury to quickly determine if there is a medical emergency. Determine the type and extent of the injury before anything else. A quick assessment of the injury will help you prevent serious complications.
Once you establish the type of injury you have, get medical help fast. While most workplace accidents affect productivity levels, some can be life-threatening if you don’t take action quickly. Medical attention and treatment are vital for the victim’s safety.
Next, the employer needs to provide support and cooperate to make the process easy. Compassion will go a long way in the aftermath of a workplace accident.
Then inspect and document every detail of the accident. If there are witnesses around, make sure to collect their information. Talk to a doctor or medical professional to ensure proper documentation of your injuries.
After ensuring proper documentation, fill out a workplace accident report form and be sure to report to your employer. By filling out a workplace accident report, you can avoid legal hassle. As an employee, be sure to report to your employer as soon as possible. A simple, quick phone call will suffice. You should also let them know if you are planning to sue them.
Call an Abington Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
Having an Abington workers’ compensation lawyer represent you is essential if you want to increase your chances of success. The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan are readily available to meet your needs and offer you top-notch, quality representation. We can assure our clients that we go above and beyond expectations to protect you and your future. You can call our office at 1-508-588-0422 to connect with a local attorney.
We will not let you down. Our team stops at nothing to get the results you rightfully deserve. When you trust us, we use that as motivation and aggressively fight on your behalf. Call us right now and schedule a free consultation.