What if You’re Injured Lifting Heavy Objects at Work?
Lifting heavy items is a part of many jobs in Vermont. Whether you are in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, warehousing, or working in retail, just one wrong move can result in serious injuries to your back, shoulders, or knees. Lifting heavy objects can also cause injuries over time, known as repetitive stress injuries, if you frequently lift items improperly. It doesn’t matter whether lifting is a routine part of your job or you are only occasionally required to lift heavy objects; you can still suffer a serious injury. These injuries can cause severe pain, prevent you from working, and cause financial stress. Luckily, Vermont law protects employees who get hurt on the job. If you injured yourself while lifting something heavy at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Understanding your rights and knowing the steps to take after an injury can help with your recovery and claim. Read on!
Common Lifting Injuries in the Workplace
Lifting injuries are some of the most common work-related injuries in Vermont. These injuries can happen suddenly, such as when you lift an unexpectedly heavy box, or they can build up slowly over time. Some common examples of work-related lifting injuries include;
- Back and neck strains or sprains: Often caused by improper lifting technique or lifting overly heavy loads.
- Herniated or bulging discs: Resulting from excessive strain from improper lifting.
- Knee injuries: Can be caused by a combination of improper lifting technique, sudden movements, and excessive weight.
- Shoulder injuries: Such as dislocations or rotator cuff tears.
- Repetitive stress injuries: Happen when repetitive or strenuous lifting results in injuries to muscles, nerves, and tendons. Examples include sciatica, rotator cuff injuries, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Workers Compensation for Lifting Injuries
In Vermont, employees who suffer injuries while performing work-related duties are generally covered by workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage applies whether you suffer an injury suddenly or over time due to repetitive lifting. And the even better news is that workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system, which means you don’t have to prove negligence.
If your Vermont workers’ compensation claim is approved, you may be entitled to;
- Medical benefits
- Temporary disability benefits
- Permanent disability benefits
- Vocational rehabilitation
Steps To Take After a Lifting Injury
After suffering a lifting injury while on the job, it is vital that you take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the steps to take after suffering a work-related lifting injury in Vermont;
- Report the injury immediately to your supervisor or employer
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Follow medical advice
- Keep documentation, including medical reports, bills, and communications with your employer or their insurance company
- File a claim for workers’ compensation (Form 5) if your employer fails to submit a First Report of Injury (Form 1) to their insurer.
- Consult an attorney
Workers’ compensation claims can be complex. While many claims are approved without issues, others face delays, disputes, and even denials. A skilled attorney can;
- Gather evidence
- Handle communication with your employer and their insurer
- Represent you in hearings
- Fight for the full benefits you’re entitled to
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve suffered a lifting injury while working, contact our experienced Vermont workers’ compensation lawyer at Sluka Law PLC for guidance through the claims process. We can help you secure the benefits you deserve.
