Repetitive motion injuries create microscopic tears in muscle tissue that cannot heal because of frequent use. Because the tissue cannot repair itself, the affected area can become inflamed, leading to pain and potential damage. When these injuries occur at work, you may be entitled to compensation. Instead of suffering, contact a Victorville repetitive motion injury lawyer to discuss your options. A knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney from Silberman & Lam could review your case during a free evaluation.
Repetitive motion injuries, also known as repetitive stress injuries, occur when continuous, repetitive movements strain the muscles, tendons, or nerves. These injuries often develop over time, making them harder to detect and treat compared to more immediate workplace injuries. These injuries often involve the arms, shoulders, neck, and lower back.
Common RMIs include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis, often caused by tasks such as typing, assembly line work, or using vibrating tools. Assembly line workers and data entry employees are prone to repetitive injuries, as are healthcare, manufacturing, and construction workers. A Victorville attorney could help a worker pursue a workers’ compensation claim for a repetitive motion injury.
Workers who experience repetitive motion injuries should act promptly to protect their rights. Early reporting is essential because the gradual nature of these injuries can make it challenging to establish industrial causation. Employees should inform their employer as soon as they recognize the injury and its connection to their work activities.
After reporting the injury, employees should complete the employee section of the DWC-1 form, which the employer must provide within 24 hours of notification. Once completed and submitted, the form allows the employer’s insurance company to begin reviewing the claim. The claims adjuster will then notify the employee of the claim’s status within 14 days.
Employees who suffer repetitive motion injuries are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which may include:
Workers’ compensation provides medical care for the treatment of repetitive motion injuries. This includes doctor visits, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, and other necessary treatments.
If repetitive motion injuries prevent employees from working, they may qualify for temporary disability benefits. These benefits provide partial wage replacement, generally up to two-thirds of their salary at the time of the injury. In some cases, insurers may calculate the benefits at an incorrect rate. It’s essential to review the payment details carefully.
If repetitive motion injuries result in lasting impairments that prevent employees from returning to their previous job, they may qualify for permanent disability benefits. The amount awarded depends on the extent of the disability, which is determined through a thorough medical evaluation.
For workers unable to return to their previous occupation, workers’ compensation may offer retraining or education for a new career.
A dedicated Victorville lawyer could assess your situation and further explain how workers’ compensation benefits apply in your repetitive motion injury case.
Proving industrial causation for repetitive motion injuries can be complex. Because these injuries develop gradually, employers or insurance companies may argue that non-work-related factors contributed to the condition. A skilled attorney in Victorville can help gather evidence, such as medical records and expert opinions, to establish the connection between your repetitive motion injury and your job duties.
Repetitive motion injuries may start with mild discomfort but can progress to debilitating conditions if left untreated. Workers dealing with these injuries often face challenges securing the benefits they deserve. A knowledgeable Victorville repetitive motion injury lawyer could help navigate the claims process, ensuring proper compensation for medical care, lost wages, and other benefits.
At Silberman & Lam, LLP, we understand the challenges of repetitive motion injuries and are dedicated to helping injured workers secure the benefits they’re entitled to. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and take the first step toward recovery.
