Lifting injuries are common in workplaces where employees handle heavy items, perform repetitive lifting tasks, or work in fast-paced environments. Back strains, herniated discs, and other lifting-related injuries can lead to severe pain and limit your ability to work. If you’ve suffered a lifting injury on the job, workers’ compensation benefits can help cover your medical expenses and lost wages. Here’s what you need to know about proving your claim to ensure you receive the support you need.
Common Types of Lifting Injuries at Work
Lifting injuries can affect various parts of the body, with the back, neck, and shoulders being most commonly impacted. Types of injuries include:
- Back Strains and Sprains: Caused by overstretching or tearing muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the back.
- Herniated Discs: Occur when the cushioning discs in the spine are damaged, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Shoulder Injuries: Strains, tears, or rotator cuff injuries often result from repetitive lifting.
- Knee and Hip Injuries: Lifting while bending or twisting can strain these areas, causing discomfort or limiting mobility.
Each of these injuries can affect your ability to work, and filing a successful workers’ comp claim requires proving that your injury is work-related.
Steps to Take After a Lifting Injury at Work
Taking immediate action after a lifting injury is essential to protect your health and support your workers’ comp claim.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Getting medical attention right away is essential for your health and your claim. Explain to your healthcare provider that your injury occurred at work, and describe how it happened. This will create a medical record that links your injury to your job, a key factor in proving your claim.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer
Report the injury to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Most states have deadlines for reporting workplace injuries, so prompt reporting is crucial. Be sure to follow your company’s reporting protocol, and keep a copy of the report for your records.
3. Document the Incident and Gather Evidence
Having detailed documentation can strengthen your workers’ comp claim. Here’s what to collect:
- Incident Report: File a report with your employer, describing how the injury occurred and any relevant details.
- Medical Records: Keep copies of medical records, doctor’s notes, and treatment plans that document your injury and its severity.
- Witness Statements: If any coworkers witnessed the injury, collect their contact information or written statements.
Proving Your Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Lifting Injury
Proving a workers’ comp claim requires showing that your injury is directly related to your job duties. Here are key steps to help prove your claim.
1. Show the Connection Between Job Duties and Injury
To qualify for workers’ comp, you need to show that your lifting injury was caused by a specific work task. This involves:
- Describing Your Job Role: Explain your regular job duties, especially any tasks involving lifting, bending, or carrying heavy objects.
- Detailing the Incident: Describe the specific moment when the injury occurred, including any unsafe conditions, such as lifting a heavy object alone or in an awkward position.
2. Obtain Medical Testimony and Records
Medical documentation is one of the strongest pieces of evidence in a workers’ comp claim. To support your case:
- Provide Diagnostic Reports: Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, can clearly show the extent and nature of your injury.
- Request a Doctor’s Opinion: Ask your doctor to provide a statement that links your injury to your work duties. This opinion can be a crucial factor if there are any disputes about the cause of the injury.
3. Avoid Gaps in Medical Treatment
Continuing your prescribed treatment without gaps is important for proving the validity of your claim. Gaps in treatment can be used by insurers to argue that your injury isn’t as severe as reported. Follow your doctor’s instructions, attend all appointments, and keep records of every visit.
What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied
If your workers’ comp claim is denied, you still have options. Common reasons for denials include lack of evidence, missed deadlines, or disputes about the cause of the injury. Here’s what to do if you encounter a denial:
- File an Appeal: Most workers’ comp systems have an appeals process that allows you to present additional evidence or clarify details about your injury.
- Consult an Employment Attorney: If your claim is denied, an experienced workers’ comp attorney can guide you through the appeals process, help you gather additional evidence, and represent your case.
Get Help with Your Workers’ Compensation Claim from PLBH
Lifting injuries can have a significant impact on your ability to work and your overall quality of life. At PLBH, we’re here to help employees navigate the workers’ compensation system and secure the benefits they deserve. If you’ve been injured on the job, contact us at (800) 435-7542 to discuss your case and learn how we can support you through the claims process.