If you are suffering from a back or spine injury, you may be wondering what to do next, whether you need an attorney, or whether you have a workers’ comp claim. Here are some answers, as well as some steps you should take after an injury.
1. Herniated discs, etc.
A herniated disc, also known as a bulging, ruptured or prolapsed disc, is a common back injury. Discs are pads of cartilage that separate your vertebrae and cushion the spine from stress or shocks. Discs can be injured from a one-time trauma, such as a car accident or lifting something heavy, or from repetitive motion. They also can deteriorate over time due to aging. As a result, you may feel pain or numbness in your back or legs, or even your feet. Other common injuries include back sprains, strains and fractures. More serious back and spine injuries can result in paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia.
2. Workers’ compensation
If your back injury was caused by your job, you are entitled to benefits under the workers’ compensation system. The most important thing to do, whether you are injured suddenly or start to feel pain over time, is to see a doctor. Tell your doctor how you were injured. Also, notify your employer of your injury. After these initial steps, you’ll want to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Commission. You should be entitled to benefits, including 100% of your medical bills, lost wages for time off work, and more depending on the permanency of your injury.
3. Pre-existing conditions
If you already had back problems before your job injury, you may be worried about whether you qualify for workers’ comp. In Illinois, you are entitled to benefits if your job caused, or worsened, your condition. In other words, if you had a bad back but it was made worse because you had to bend and pick things up all day at work, then you can probably still get benefits. In these cases, your claim may be disputed by your employer or the insurance company. If this happens to you, you should hire a workers’ compensation attorney to present your case.
We are workers’ compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
