Overexertion Injuries and Workers Compensation Claims

According to the 2008 Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index, overexertion injuries are the most common type of workplace injury, accounting for approximately 25% of all workers compensation claims. These types of injuries are also among the most expensive, costing an average of around 12 billion dollars per year in direct costs.

Injuries Caused by Overexertion at the Workplace

Overexertion injuries can occur when a person works beyond their own physical capabilities. Unlike carpal tunnel syndrome, which is caused by repetitive activities over a long period of time, strains and pains due to overexertion can often occur suddenly. These injuries are very common in construction trades or other jobs which often require a lot of strenuous physical activity. For example, lifting heavy objects while fatigued or without proper training can cause such injuries. According to available statistics, around 60 percent of all overexertion injuries affect the back.

Symptoms of Overertion Injuries

The injuries caused by physical overexertion can range from simple and easily treatable strains and pains to severe, debilitating injuries. As with carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive motion injuries, the affected area needs time to recover after an injury. Workers may be advised by their doctors against lifting heavy objects or performing other basic job functions, or they may require a period of total bed rest. This often leads to a loss of income. In addition, the medical expenses required to treat the injury may be quite high, putting an injured worker under financial strain.

Filing a Workers Compensation Claim

Those who have suffered an injury to their back or other part of the body due to overexertion on the job are eligible for workers compensation benefits in order to pay for medical treatments. In addition, these benefits will compensate them for lost wages as a result of their injury, which will allow a person time to recover without added financial stress. Generally a report of injury must be filed and medical records must be submitted in order to receive workers compensation benefits. When filing a workers compensation claim, it's important to follow the rules exactly in order to avoid a claim denial.

Help from a Workers Compensation Attorney

Because the specific laws and rules for filing for workers compensation vary by state, consulting a qualified workers compensation attorney is recommended. An attorney can help guide an injured worker through the process of filing a claim in order to ensure that they receive the benefits they need.