An invisible work injury can occur when a person uses their body for repetition when at work. This can include: pre-existing conditions, psychological injuries and physical injuries. A person may be unable to fulfill the requirements of their job if an injury is left untreated. It can be easy for an invisible work injury to fly under the radar because, in some cases, a person may not even be aware of them. The following captures important information regarding how to manage an invisible injury when on the job.
Filing for Invisible Injury Claims
Immediately Report the Injury: You should report the injury as soon as you become aware of it. Typically you have 30 days to file a report from the time you were aware of the injury. If there is a delay in filing a report, the likelihood that workers compensation rejects the claim increases.
Witnesses: A witness can be vital to a workers’ comp claim. If you know of anyone who can help to confirm the validity of your injuries, it will be important to speak with them around being a witness.
Consult with a Doctor: Immediately have the injury assessed by a doctor. This will be vital as part of the documentation process in addition to learning more about your treatment. They will also be able to help prove that you sustained your injury when on the job.
Examples of Invisible Injuries
There are various types of invisible injuries that could result in a workers’ compensation claim which include:
- Pre-Existing Conditions: including sciatica, chronic pain and fibromyalgia
- Physical Work Injuries: such as whiplash, sprains, strains and soft tissue damage
- Hidden Hazards: examples include invisible gases, mold, dust and exposure to chemicals. It can be years before a worker experiences symptoms from such hazards.
- Psychological Injuries: When a person experiences harassment when on the job at the hands of another employee. This can result in PTSD, depression, etc.
Examples of Damages that can be Collected
Regardless of whether or not the injuries sustained are visible or not, compensation for damages are usually the same.
- When the injury results in a permanent disability
- Medical Expenses
- In the event that someone died on the job, loved ones are entitled to compensation.
- If you are unable to continue with the job you can be awarded a replacement income.
- If you need to be retrained to do your job
- Educational expenses if you can no longer do your current job
If you find yourself impacted by an invisible injury while fulfilling the responsibilities of your job, immediately seek medical care and even an attorney, like a workers compensation lawyer Milwaukee WI trusts. You will have a chance to claim workers’ compensation if you are able to provide proof that the injury you sustained was work-related. Sorting out the options you have with the help of a workers’ compensation attorney will be the best way to have a successful outcome.
Thanks to our contributors from Hickey & Turim, SC for their insight into workers compensation injuries.