Workplace injuries happen all the time. Specifically, back injuries are among the most common. More than 1 million workers suffer back injuries each year, and those injuries account for around 20% of all occupational accidents and illnesses, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Back injuries are second only to the common cold for absences at work.

A minor back injury can cause discomfort and make it difficult to perform normal tasks, but can result in long-lasting damage if it isn't addressed. Continuing to put stress on a back injury can result in further issues, such as paralysis, nerve damage, chronic pain, and other debilitating symptoms. And, could even require years of medical treatment and therapy. 

In Connecticut, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits if you sustain a back injury on the job.

A CT workers' compensation lawyer who has experience and knowledge about Connecticut employment law can be extremely helpful. The team at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, has represented hundreds of clients who have suffered serious back injury at work. Call us today for a free consultation.

Back Injuries At Work: Do I Qualify For Workers Compensation?

Companies in the state of Connecticut are required by law to carry workers' compensation insurance. Self-insurance is an option, but the company must still prove their financial stability to the Workers' Compensation Commission.

Employees are entitled to workers' compensation insurance or an equivalent benefit from their employers. As a result, companies risk being held responsible for their workers' medical bills and lost wages if their own insurance coverage is inadequate or if it lapses.

Proving that your back injury occurred because of your work duties is important to your workers' compensation claim. It may be slightly easier to prove that your injury is related to your job if the accident occurred at work. However, back injuries can be persistent and exacerbated under specific conditions, making it more difficult to prove that it is work-related.

If your back injury was the result of your work, the fact that you were doing something that is known to increase the likelihood of such injuries may aid your case. It's common for healthcare workers to have back injuries due to the constant bending, stretching, and lifting required.

Medical records can serve as vital evidence to show that your back injury was sustained on the job. In order to get the workers' compensation after a back injury at work, talking to an attorney about your case can be beneficial. The legal team of Brandon J. Broderick, an experienced Connecticut workers' compensation attorney, can help you build a case to support your claim.

Workers Comp Benefits For Back Injury  in Connecticut

Your eligibility for workers' compensation benefits will be determined by the nature and extent of your back injury. Workers' comp will pay for a worker's medical expenses, as well as lost wages. However, their ability to return to work is considered when determining whether or not to award wage replacement benefits.

Injured employees can receive the following compensations:

• Temporary total disability benefits: Workers who are temporarily disabled but will soon be able to return to work are eligible. If an employee is temporarily unable to work due to an injury, they are entitled to 75% of their average weekly income before the accident.

• Temporary partial disability benefits: Workers who are temporarily disabled but are able to work fewer hours per week may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits. In the case of temporary partial disability, the employee is entitled to 75% of the difference between his/her current wage and what he/she would have made in the absence of the accident.

• Permanent partial disability benefits: Workers who lose some function in a limb or other body part due to an injury are eligible for permanent partial disability compensation. The extent of the injury or loss of physical function is taken into account when calculating the amount of compensation due.

What If I'm Denied Benefits? What Can I Do?

If your workers' compensation claim was denied in Connecticut, you can request a hearing to appeal the decision. If this is what happened to you, seek the assistance of a workers' comp attorney. They can tell you more about the reasons why your claim was denied and the steps you might take next.

The first thing you should do is ask for an informal hearing. After this, you and/or your lawyer will have the opportunity to submit further information and evidence in support of your claim.

If you and your employer's insurance provider are unable to resolve the dispute before the hearing, the Commissioner will hear both sides of the argument and make a recommendation based on what he or she decides. If the insurance company's agent and you are unable to reach an agreement, the matter will be brought before a judge or jury in a formal hearing or trial.

Our Connecticut Workers' Comp Lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick Are Here For You

After suffering a work-related back injury, you should make a claim quickly. However, you should contact an attorney for help.

Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is dedicated to resolving any problems that may arise for our clients in the course of their workers' compensation case and their benefits. We are knowledgeable in employment law and can help you resolve your dispute.

Through our offices in Connecticut, we've assisted many customers just like you. Get in touch with us now, so that we may discuss your case and explore potential solutions with you.