How Do Lifting Injuries Happen at Work?

Regardless of where you work, whether it’s in an office, restaurant, or warehouse, you may be required to do some heavy lifting as part of your job. Unfortunately, however, lifting injuries account for a significant number of work-related injuries, so understanding how they happen and your rights if you are injured is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of discussing your circumstances with a Florida workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your legal options during this complicated time.

What Are Lifting Injuries and How Do They Happen?

Lifting injuries occur when someone is injured while in the process of lifting or moving materials, equipment, or other items around their place of work. In general, the large majority of these injuries are the result of improper form when lifting. Unfortunately, many employees are unaware of the correct form when lifting, and employers do not take the time to train employees on how to reduce the risk of injury. As such, this leads many to suffer as a result.

However, improper form is not the only reason that employees can suffer lifting injuries while on the job. You may find that employers who do not provide the necessary equipment to move heavy items, like hoists, trolleys, handtrucks, or even lifting straps, can increase the risk of injury for their employees. Similarly, if you are required to move an object that requires the assistance of at least one other person, but your employer asks you to do it on your own, you can suffer serious injuries as a result.

The most common injuries that result from lifting are soft tissue injuries, which include sprains and strains. However, you’ll find that these injuries can also result in broken bones, slipped discs, and even issues like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Can I Recover Workers’ Compensation for These Damages?

It’s necessary to understand that workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. This means you do not need to prove that your employer’s negligence caused your injuries. Instead, you only need to show that the injuries you sustained occurred at work while engaged in duties related to your job.

If you are injured at work, it’s imperative to understand that you must report the injury within 30 days to your employer. Additionally, if you seek medical care, you must ensure that the provider you go to is approved by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer. Failure to do both of these can result in the denial of your claim.

As you can see, navigating the workers’ compensation system in Florida can be incredibly difficult. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore. Our team understands the impact these injuries can have on your life, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.