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If you’ve been injured on the job in Parma, a workers’ compensation lawyer from Obral Silk & Pal Personal Injury Lawyers can guide you through the claims process and help you secure the benefits you’re entitled to. We understand the intricacies of workers’ compensation law and will work diligently to ensure your rights are protected. Call us today at 216-529-9377 for a free consultation and get the support you need during this challenging time.

Injuries That Can Be Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Parma

If you’ve been injured while working in Parma, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. However, not every injury automatically qualifies for compensation. It’s important to understand which injuries are eligible for workers’ compensation and what steps you should take to ensure that your claim is properly handled. Below is a breakdown of common workplace injuries that qualify for workers’ compensation, as well as the process for making a claim.

Types of Injuries That Qualify for Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation provides coverage for injuries that occur in the workplace or as a result of work-related activities. While there are many different types of injuries that may qualify, the key factor is whether the injury happened while you were performing your job duties. Here are the most common types of injuries that typically qualify for workers’ compensation benefits:

Accidents Resulting in Physical Injury

Physical injuries are the most straightforward and commonly covered under workers’ compensation laws. These injuries occur when there is a sudden, traumatic event that causes harm to the body. Examples include:

  • Broken Bones: If you slip, fall, or are struck by an object while working, causing a fracture, workers’ compensation may cover medical expenses and lost wages.
  • Sprains and Strains: Overexertion, lifting heavy objects, or improper posture while working can lead to sprains and strains, which are also eligible for compensation.
  • Head Injuries: If you suffer a blow to the head while working, even if you wear protective gear like a helmet, this can lead to serious injuries such as concussions or skull fractures.
  • Back and Spine Injuries: Lifting, bending, or repetitive movements can lead to back injuries like herniated discs or spinal cord damage. These injuries often require long-term treatment, including surgery or physical therapy.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Not all work-related injuries result from one traumatic event. Many injuries occur over time due to repetitive motion or stress placed on certain body parts. These injuries may not always be immediately obvious, but they can cause long-term pain and disability. Some common examples of repetitive stress injuries include:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Often caused by repetitive typing or use of a mouse, carpal tunnel syndrome affects the nerves in the wrist and can cause numbness, pain, and weakness in the hand.
  • Tendonitis and Bursitis: Repetitive motions like lifting, bending, or using hand tools can cause tendonitis (inflammation of tendons) or bursitis (inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around joints). These injuries are common among workers who perform manual labor or work in construction and manufacturing jobs.
  • Rotator Cuff Injuries: Lifting, overhead work, or repetitive arm movements can result in rotator cuff injuries, which can severely limit arm mobility and cause chronic pain.

Occupational Diseases and Illnesses

In addition to physical injuries, workers’ compensation can also cover illnesses and diseases that result from long-term exposure to harmful conditions at work. Some of the most common occupational diseases include:

  • Respiratory Conditions: Workers in certain fields, such as construction, mining, or factory work, may be exposed to harmful substances like dust, fumes, or chemicals. Prolonged exposure to these substances can lead to respiratory conditions like asthma, silicosis, or lung cancer.
  • Hearing Loss: Exposure to loud noises over time, especially in construction or factory settings, can lead to hearing loss. Workers who are regularly exposed to high levels of noise may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for hearing impairment.
  • Skin Conditions: Workers in environments where they are exposed to hazardous chemicals or extreme weather conditions may develop skin conditions such as rashes, dermatitis, or burns. These can be covered by workers’ compensation if they are a direct result of your work environment.

Mental Health Injuries

In some cases, workers may also qualify for workers’ compensation benefits due to mental health injuries, such as those resulting from extreme stress, trauma, or workplace harassment. While these types of injuries can be more difficult to prove, they are still eligible for compensation under certain circumstances. Some examples of mental health injuries that might qualify for workers’ compensation include:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Employees who experience traumatic events while on the job, such as first responders or workers in high-risk industries, may develop PTSD. If the trauma occurred in the course of their work duties, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
  • Workplace Stress and Anxiety: If a work environment becomes so stressful that it leads to mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, a workers’ compensation claim may be filed. This is particularly true for workers who experience harassment, bullying, or other forms of psychological stress at work.

What Injuries Do Not Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?

While many injuries and conditions are covered under workers’ compensation, not all of them are. In some cases, injuries may not be eligible for compensation due to various factors. Some common reasons why an injury may not qualify for workers’ compensation include:

  • Injuries Sustained Outside of Work: Workers’ compensation only applies to injuries or illnesses that occur while you are performing job-related tasks. If the injury happened while you were off-duty, such as during a weekend activity, it would not be covered.
  • Injuries Caused by Intoxication or Drug Use: If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs when the injury occurs, you may not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Injuries or illnesses that are not caused by the work environment or activities may not be covered. For example, if you have a pre-existing back condition and an unrelated accident worsens the condition, it may not qualify for compensation.
  • Self-Inflicted Injuries: If an injury was self-inflicted, either intentionally or through reckless behavior, it may not qualify for workers’ compensation.

Filing a Claim

If you have suffered a work-related injury in Parma, it’s essential to file a workers’ compensation claim as soon as possible. The first step is to report the injury to your employer. Most states require that you report an injury within a certain period, usually 24 to 72 hours. Failing to report your injury in a timely manner could result in your claim being denied.

Once you’ve reported the injury, your employer should provide you with the necessary forms to file a claim. If you are unable to fill out the forms yourself, or if you face resistance from your employer, you may want to contact a workers’ compensation attorney. An attorney can help ensure that your claim is properly filed, and they can assist you with any disputes that may arise during the claims process.

Legal Help for Workers’ Compensation Claims

While workers’ compensation is designed to help injured workers recover lost wages and pay medical bills, navigating the claims process can be complicated. In some cases, workers may face delays or denials from their insurance company. If your claim has been denied, or if you are not receiving the benefits you’re entitled to, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation claims.

Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Parma

If you’ve been injured at work, securing the right workers’ compensation benefits can be a complicated process. Obral Silk & Pal Personal Injury Lawyers can help you navigate your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. Call 216-529-9377 today for a free consultation and take control of your future.