When you work a job that requires a lot of physical labor – whether in construction, manufacturing, shipping operations or even healthcare – you likely end more than a few days with a sore back. However, what happens if your back goes out while you are at work? Or you wake up one morning, after working a long shift the day before, and you can’t move because of intense back pain?
Back injuries and workers’ compensation
First, you should know that suffering a back injury at work or because of your work duties is very common. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that more than 1 million employees suffer back injuries at work each year. To receive workers’ compensation for your back injury, you need to report it to your employer immediately. You also need to seek medical treatment, so a doctor can evaluate how serious your injury is and how long you may be out of work. At some point, you may need to have your back injury evaluated by a doctor approved by your employer’s workers’ comp provider.
To receive maximum workers’ compensation, you need to:
- keep all your medical records and bills relating to your injury
- follow your doctor’s treatment plan
- keep track of how many days you miss from work during your recovery
- remember your employer’s workers’ comp insurer may be watching you through surveillance, to see if your back injury is as serious as you claim
Getting help with a workers’ compensation claim
If you run into problems with your workers’ compensation claim, you should consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can appeal a denied workers’ compensation claim or advocate for longer benefits if you face a lengthy, difficult recovery. An attorney can help ensure you don’t return to work before you are physically and mentally ready to.
You always want to safeguard your ability to receive workers’ compensation after a workplace injury. With help, you can protect your rights and ensure you receive the workers’ comp benefits you deserve while you recover.