Overexertion injuries – also known as stress injuries – happen when you engage in an activity beyond your body’s standard capabilities. You can do that in two ways: by applying too much force, such as attempting to carry something that is too heavy, and using an average amount of force but engaging in too much of that activity.
You may be eligible for workers ‘ compensation coverage when you hurt yourself at work by pushing your body beyond its limits. However, you must file your claim promptly and demonstrate that the damage occurred during the course of your employment to avoid delays or denials. A Glendale overexertion injury lawyer could examine the circumstances to determine whether your injury falls under workers’ compensation and help ensure no important steps are missed during the application process. Reach out to Glauber Berenson Vego today to begin working with a dedicated workplace injury attorney.
To be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage, an employee must experience an accident or illness during their employment. California law explicitly limits workers’ compensation benefits to employees, excluding contractors, temporary and domestic workers, and seasonal help. However, the job title is not decisive. Instead, to determine eligibility, the courts look at how much direction and control the employer had over the worker. So, a person might be eligible for workers’ compensation, even if they are paid as an independent contractor.
Additionally, the injury or illness must happen in the course of employment. Sometimes, determining if an injury occurred during work is simple, such as with accidents like equipment malfunctioning. Other times, it is more complicated, especially when the injury builds up over time rather than after a specific event.
One of the complicating factors for getting workers’ compensation coverage for overexertion injuries is that it can be challenging to demonstrate that the overuse occurred in the workplace. Sometimes, you may not feel pain or discomfort for a day or two after the injury. You may also engage in similar motions during personal hobbies or daily activities. Our Glendale attorneys could demonstrate how your work contributed to an overexertion injury by showing that the job required bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, or lifting beyond your physical capabilities.
Overexertion injuries happen when a person goes beyond their usual physical limits. They can be acute, occurring due to a one-time action and resulting in immediate injury. For example, when a person hurts their back by attempting to lift something that is too heavy. They can also be chronic, resulting in accumulated minor injuries from overuse. Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common examples of overexertion injuries due to repetitive motions. Overexertion injuries can impact muscles, tendons, joints, ligaments, or bones.
Other common types of overexertion injuries include:
Often, repetitive stress injuries begin as minor annoyances but get exacerbated over time because people fail to get the proper treatment or rest. Seeking medical treatment promptly when you first notice an issue helps avoid this and makes establishing a connection to your job duties if you need to file for workers’ compensation much more manageable. A Glendale overexertion injury attorney could help you find a doctor experienced in handling workers’ comp claims.
You may face hurdles in your workers’ compensation claim when you are seeking benefits for an overexertion injury. However, a legal advocate with the right experience could help you prove a connection between your injury and your job and act as an advocate throughout the process. Contact our firm today to work with a Glendale overexertion injury lawyer.
