Common Myths about Workers’ Compensation

When you are injured on the job, you are entitled to workers’ compensation to help you cover medical expenses and lost wages. Workers compensation claims are very common; however, certain myths about them nonetheless continue to circulate. When you have questions about filing a claim for a work-related injury, it’s best to consult with an Iowa workers’ compensation attorney. Below are five of the myths we hear most often at the Law Offices of James P. Hoffman.

Myth 1: Your injury must occur on the jobsite. – Workers’ compensation benefits cover any injury you sustain while doing your job, not just at your place of employment or jobsite. For example, you may qualify if you are injured in a car accident while on the way to work-related appointments.

Myth 2: Your employer will help you optimize your benefits. -- While many employers do help injured employees with the process, they do not necessarily assist you with obtaining maximal coverage. And while most claims will not require legal representation, an experienced attorney will ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve.

Myth 3: Attorney’s fees will take the majority of your compensation. -- In workers comp cases, legal fees are often limited by statute. Your attorney will let you know upfront what to expect regarding cost.

Myth 4: Workers’ compensation is the only recourse for your injury. -- If your injury is due to another’s negligence, you may qualify for a personal injury claim for financial compensation.

Myth 5: You can be fired for your workers’ compensation claim. -- By law, employers cannot discriminate on the basis of physical or mental disability. Your employer cannot fire you for exercising your right to use workers’ compensation. You will be held to the same standards regarding your employment status as before you were injured. 

If you have trouble filing your claim, or your claim is denied, schedule an appointment with an experienced Iowa workers compensation attorney. At our firm, we fight to win the settlements our clients deserve.

Repetitive Stress Injuries and Workers’ Compensation

Getting injured while on the job can be devastating. Most Americans value their jobs and workplaces, so any interruption to your daily work activities due to pain or injury can be a scary thing. This is especially true for employees who are suffering from stress injuries caused by repetitive tasks. Any task you do, no matter how simple, can cause strain and cramping. Though it may not seem like a situation worthy of a workers’ compensation claim, it actually does meet the criteria. Since laws and regulations vary from state to state, it’s vital that you understand how an Iowa workers’ compensation claim works for repetitive stress injuries.

A repetitive stress injury is typically the result of performing a particular action many times. It is defined as a gradual buildup of damage to muscles, tendons, and nerves from repetitive motions. Some of the most common are:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
• Nerve Inflammation
• Tennis Elbow

If your pain is a direct result of your daily activities at work, then you are entitled to seek compensation for medical costs, lost wages due to absences from work, and costs from various types of therapy or retraining. Your recovery is important to your overall health, so trying to deal with the pain while continuing to work is not a good option. Since seeking workers’ compensation on your own can be a complicated process, it is best to work with an attorney who is well versed in workplace injury and how to correctly file a workers’ compensation claim in Iowa. With an attorney by your side, you’re more likely to get the payout you need to maintain your livelihood while you recover.

Common Orthopedic Injuries

The human body can typically withstand a lot of wear and tear over the years. However, the more stress the body endures, the more likely an injury is to occur. In some unfortunate cases, injury can inhibit your ability to remain employed due to either physical or mental fatigue. When this happens, you are encouraged to seek out disability lawyers in Iowa who will help you determine your eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Whether your disability is temporary or permanent, you may qualify for these benefits.

Because the musculoskeletal system in your body is vast and complex, there are many types of orthopedic injuries that you could suffer from. Some of the most common orthopedic injuries are bone fractures, sprains, and strains. However, the following injuries are also typically covered under SSD benefits:

• Major Dysfunction of the Joints
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Spinal Disorders
• Amputations

Even if your orthopedic injury is uncommon, you still may qualify for benefits. When it comes to proving a disability to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the most important leverage you have is a qualified Iowa-based disability lawyer on your side. A lawyer will know how to help you prove that your disability is preventing your activities of daily living, especially your ability to work. Even if you’ve been denied, seeking counsel can help identify why the SSA rejected your claim before and help you provide new evidence to ensure you get the benefits you are entitled to receive.