Hazardous Jobs That May Lead to Injuries
Many may not realize that even the most mundane of professions can pose a risk to employees. Even in an office setting, employees may succumb to work-related injuries. However, some jobs may be more hazardous than others, leading to a high risk for an injury occurring. If you have been injured while at work, you may be able to access workers’ compensation benefits as a way of helping with medical expenses, a percentage of weekly income missed, and more. While it’s important that you notify your employer and seek medical attention, you may consider contacting a workers’ compensation lawyer as well. They can guide you through the process and may even be able to assist in filing a third party claim if applicable.
Injuries from Hazardous Jobs
Some jobs are more dangerous than others. These jobs can result in serious and even life-threatening injuries. The following are some of the most dangerous jobs that may put people at risk for injuries that could require workers’ compensation one day:
- Construction workers
- Truck drivers
- Police officers
- Electrical line workers
- Roofers
There are a number of ways that an employee may be injured in a hazardous job, including:
- Slip and falls
- Being struck by an object
- Machinery malfunction
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Overexertion
Workers’ compensation is a mutually beneficial program for employees and employers. The idea behind workers’ compensation is that employers can protect their businesses from costly lawsuits and employees who are injured can get the help that they need following an accident. While in most cases workers’ compensation is meant to be straightforward, at times, complications can arise which may call for the assistance of a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Notifying Your Employer
Much of the time you have up to 30 days to notify your employer after an accident has occurred. However, it’s important to be aware that this timeframe can vary based on the state you live in. To safeguard your right to workers’ compensation benefits, it’s important that you report the accident to your employer as soon as possible.
Seeking Medical Attention
Immediately after noticing signs that you have been injured, it will be vital that you seek medical care to treat injuries and diagnose any underlying problems. Seeking medical care not only ensures that you are treated, but it can also help you prove and link your injuries to your job, should you pursue workers’ compensation benefits or take legal action. In the wake of an accident it’s necessary that you follow all treatment recommendations coming from your doctor.
Understanding Third Party Liability
Just because you accept workers’ compensation doesn’t mean that do not have the ability to take legal action still. In some cases, there may be a third party responsible for your accident. You may have the ability to pursue a personal injury claim and workers’ compensation at the same time. Third party liability may be the result of:
- Manufacturing defects
- Motor vehicle accidents caused by another driver
- Premises liability
- Outside contractors
Facing an injury that has occurred while on the job can quickly become complicated. At times, workers’ compensation may not be as straightforward as you may have originally believed. For a legal professional who can protect your rights and assist you in obtaining the help, you need a worker’s compensation lawyers from Law Offices of Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt, who can help you and provide you with more information.