Back injuries: If you do any kind of work (from sitting at a desk, to driving a truck, to stocking shelves and more) you may suffer pain or much worse, an injury, at work. The question then becomes whether you can file a worker’s compensation claim for it?

Back injuries are common and generally the answer is, yes! You can file worker’s compensation claims for these types of injuries. However, here are some things you need to know:

You can prevent them

No employer wants their employees to suffer back injuries. They can be costly and result in a loss of productivity. If you are in a job where you have to lift, there are ways you can prevent injuries. You can also prevent back pain or injury if you sit or stand for prolonged periods of time by using ergonomic chairs, back supports and doing stretching and other exercise.

When are back injuries covered by  worker’s compensation claim?

Every state has different rules and laws, but speaking generally, if your back pain or injury happens at work, you’ll get coverage for medical treatment, testing and any follow up care you may need related to your work injury.

You might also get some or all of your wages paid to you while you recover.

What do I do if I’m injured?

There are two very important things that you should do immediately after you have been injured at work.  One is to seek medical attention/treatment and the other is to tell your boss or your company’s human resources department.  Doing both of these things immediately following a work-related injury will help you if you decide that you want to file a claim.  You also need to keep in mind that if you do wish to file a worker’s compensation claim you will need to act fast, because most states have a statute of limitations of one (1) year from the date of the injury.

So, get help and notify your work – and if you need expert advice, call an attorney!

A good attorney can help you navigate the system so you don’t lose out on benefits you deserve.

Connor, Kimmet & Hafenstein LLP

If you have questions about back injuries and worker’s compensation claims, contact us today. We have a lawyer who will work for you.