Although you can be injured at any job, there are some occupations that are more dangerous than others. In 2006 the Department of Labor reported that nursing aides, orderlies and attendants had the most days away from work due to an on the job injury. Construction workers, movers and truck drivers came in second with more than 40,000 at work injuries reported. No matter what the job, Americans in the private sector were injured over 1.2 million times in 2006. This number does not include on the job deaths or injuries that go unreported due to fear of losing a job or being demoted.
If you have been injured on the job you have nothing to fear. The attorneys at The Bagneris Firm are standing by, ready to help you.
Common on the Job Injuries
On the job injuries can range from the more common sprains and strains, to the most severe, paralysis, loss of limb, and death. Some of the most frequent injuries sustained at work include:
- Muscle sprains and strains
- Back and neck injuries
- Hand and wrist injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Tension neck syndrome
- Paralysis
- Coma
- Broken bones
- Herniated Disc
- Knee injuries
- Foot injuries
- Loss of a limb
- Crushing injuries
- Falling injuries
- Death
No matter the severity of your injury, if you were hurt while on the job you have the right to file for workers compnsation and dispute the ruling if your claim is undervalued. Louisiana law requires that your employer or their insurance company compensate you or your family for injuries or deaths that occur while at work. While this is true, it does not mean that they have your best interests at heart. Devaluing your claim benefits the company and leaves you injured and without the resources you need to recover from your accident. Only an experienced lawyer can help you fight and win your workers compensation claim.
The Problem with an Independent Medical Examiner
When you file for workers compensation, you may be sent to an independent medial examiner (IME). The word "independent" is questionable. Your employer, the insurance company, their attorney and the doctor are looking out for their bottom line, not your best interests. Your injuries may be minimized or dismissed altogether. You know you are suffering after being hurt on the job. It is not fair that so many people that you trust would work against you, dismissing your injury and attempting to undervalue your case.
The only way to level the playing field is to ensure that you too have a team on your side; a dedicated lawyer to help you file your workers' compensation claim. At The Bagneris Firm, you will get the personal attention you deserve.
