10 Common Workplace Injuries in Virginia: When to Call a Worker’s Comp Lawyer

Workplace injuries are an unfortunate reality for many employees in Virginia. Knowing when to seek legal assistance can be crucial for protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. This guide explores the top 10 workplace injuries in Virginia and provides insights on when to consult a worker’s compensation lawyer.

The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act covers most employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. This no-fault insurance system provides benefits regardless of who caused the accident, as long as the injury occurred during the course of employment.

Top 10 Common Workplace Injuries in Virginia

1. Overexertion Injuries

Overexertion injuries often result from lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, or carrying objects. These injuries can affect various parts of the body, including the back, shoulders, and arms. These injuries may not be covered if they are caused by repetitive trauma.  You must show that your injury came from a specific identifiable accident. 

When to Call a Lawyer: If your employer disputes that your  injury is work-related or if you’re denied appropriate medical treatment, it’s time to consult a worker’s compensation attorney.

2. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls can occur in any workplace, from office environments to construction sites. These accidents can lead to a range of injuries, from minor bruises to severe fractures or head injuries.

When to Call a Lawyer: If your employer claims you were at fault for the fall or if you’re facing difficulties getting your medical bills covered, seeking legal advice is advisable.

3. Falls from Heights

Falls from ladders, roofs, or other elevated surfaces are particularly common in construction and maintenance industries. These accidents can result in serious injuries, including spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries.

When to Call a Lawyer: Due to the severity of these injuries, it’s often wise to consult a lawyer early in the process to ensure you receive full compensation for long-term medical needs and potential disability.

4. “Struck by Object” Injuries

Workers can be injured when hit by falling objects, moving equipment, or vehicles. These incidents can cause a variety of injuries, from minor contusions to severe crushing injuries.

When to Call a Lawyer: If there’s a dispute about how the accident occurred or if you’re facing long-term disability due to the injury, legal representation can be crucial.

5. Repetitive Motion Injuries

Repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, develop over time due to repeated motions. These are common in office settings and manufacturing jobs.

When to Call a Lawyer: Because these injuries develop gradually, employers often dispute their work-relatedness. Consult an attorney as soon as you’re considering a claim. It’s important to gather evidence early on and to be thorough in case-building.

6. Machine Entanglement

In industrial settings, workers can suffer severe injuries if caught in or compressed by machinery. These accidents often result in amputations or crushing injuries.

When to Call a Lawyer: Given the severity of these injuries, it’s advisable to consult a lawyer immediately to ensure you receive appropriate compensation for permanent disabilities.

7. Vehicle-Related Accidents

Employees who drive as part of their job are at risk of vehicle accidents. These can range from minor fender-benders to catastrophic collisions.

When to Call a Lawyer: If the accident involves a third party or if there’s a dispute about whether you were acting within the scope of your employment, legal assistance is crucial.

8. Exposure to Harmful Substances

Workers in various industries may be exposed to toxic chemicals, radiation, or other harmful substances. This can lead to acute injuries or long-term occupational diseases.

When to Call a Lawyer: Cases involving occupational diseases often require extensive medical evidence. A lawyer can help gather the necessary documentation to support your claim.

9. Workplace Violence

Unfortunately, some workers face the risk of physical assault in their workplace. This can result in both physical injuries and psychological trauma.

When to Call a Lawyer: If your employer disputes that the violence was work-related or if you’re struggling to receive compensation for psychological treatment, legal representation is advisable.

10. Electrocution

Electrical injuries can occur in various workplaces, particularly in construction and maintenance fields. These injuries can be severe, causing burns, nerve damage, or even cardiac arrest.

When to Call a Lawyer: Due to the potential for long-term health effects, it’s wise to consult a lawyer to ensure your claim accounts for all current and future medical needs.

The Importance of Timely Reporting and Legal Assistance

Regardless of the type of injury, it’s crucial to report workplace accidents promptly. In Virginia, employees should report injuries to their employer within 30 days of the accident. Failing to report on time could jeopardize your right to benefits.

While many worker’s compensation claims proceed smoothly, complex cases often benefit from legal representation. Attorney Jaleh Slominski of Slominski Law has extensive experience in Virginia worker’s compensation law and can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the claims process.

When to Seek Legal Representation

While not every worker’s compensation claim requires an attorney, certain situations warrant legal assistance:

• Claim denial: If your claim is denied, an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process.
• Disputed injuries: When there’s disagreement about the extent of your injuries or their work-relatedness, a lawyer can help gather and present medical evidence.
• Complex cases: If your injury involves pre-existing conditions, occupational diseases, or permanent disability, the worker’s comp insurer may likely dispute your claim. It’s crucial to have an attorney assert your rights.
• Retaliation: If you face adverse employment actions after filing a claim, a lawyer can protect your rights.
• Third-party claims: In cases where a third party contributed to your injury, a lawyer can help you explore additional legal options.

The Role of a Worker’s Compensation Lawyer

A skilled worker’s compensation attorney like Jaleh Slominski can provide numerous benefits:

• Claim preparation: Ensuring all necessary documentation is properly filed
• Evidence-gathering: Collecting medical records and expert opinions to support your claim
• Negotiation: Dealing with insurance companies to secure fair compensation
• Representation: Advocating for your rights in hearings and appeals
• Comprehensive approach: Taking into account all aspects of your case, including potential third-party claims.

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Virginia and are facing challenges with your claim, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal advice. Contact Slominski Law at (434) 384-9400 for our Lynchburg office or (540) 554-3762 for our Roanoke office. Attorney Jaleh Slominski’s extensive experience in Virginia worker’s compensation law can be invaluable in securing the benefits you deserve.

When Your Virginia Workers’ Comp Claim Gets Difficult, Call Slominski Law

Your health, financial stability, and future may depend on it. Contact Slominski Law today for a free initial consultation to discuss your case. You can reach our Lynchburg office at (434) 384-9400 or our Roanoke office at (540) 554-3762. Your consultation is free. Take the first step towards securing your rights and the compensation you deserve – call Slominski Law today.