Every year in the United States, millions of workers suffer from workplace injuries. Worker’s compensation is a system put in place by state governments to protect workers. They vary by state, which is why it is important to know your rights. Workplace injuries range in severity and some can be fatal.
The most common, non-life-threatening workplace injuries include:
- Falls from heights to lower levels
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Slips, trips and falls
- Overexertion and lifting/lowering injuries
- Falling objects or debris
- Work-related vehicular accidents
What is Worker’s Compensation?
Worker’s compensation is a form of insurance that replaces lost wages and pays for medical and chiropractic care for people injured while on the job. The type of medical care needed for each case varies, but many injuries will benefit from chiropractic care. It provides a long range solution for back pain, headaches and migraines, neck pain and other injury types that are suffered on the job. Most of the time worker’s compensation will allow chiropractic care.
What if I get injured while at work?
It is important to notify your employer immediately in writing to inform of your injury or occupational concern and request that you receive medical assistance. Be sure to review your employee handbook for any additional steps you may need to take regarding a workplace injury. If your work injury is severe or complicated, you may want to consult with a workplace compensation or personal injury attorney for guidance.
What are my rights?
If you become injured at work, it is crucial to know that as the employee you have the right to choose your treating physician(s). In workers’ compensation cases, all necessary medical treatments and hospitalization stays or services are provided by either the employer’s insurance carrier or the employer.
