No matter how many safety protocols are put into place, work accidents still happen. When it comes to Columbia Missouri workplace injuries, shoulder injuries are more common than you might think.
Let’s take a closer look at the Missouri Workers’ Compensation program, why shoulder injuries happen at work, and how an experienced Columbia Missouri Workers’ Compensation attorney can help if you or someone you know has suffered a significant shoulder injury on the job.
What is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ Compensation is a type of insurance that most employers are required to have. It’s designed to help employees who get injured or become ill while doing their job. If you’re hurt at work, Missouri Workers’ Compensation can provide financial support and cover your medical expenses, making sure you can recover without worrying too much about money.
Why Do Shoulder Injuries Happen at Work?
Shoulder injuries can occur in a variety of jobs, from heavy lifting in a warehouse to typing at a computer for long hours. Here are some common reasons why shoulder injuries happen at work:
Repetitive Motion: Doing the same shoulder movements repeatedly, like lifting heavy objects or reaching overhead, can strain the muscles and tendons, causing injuries over time.
Heavy Lifting: Jobs that involve lifting heavy objects, such as construction or warehouse work, put a lot of stress on the shoulders. One wrong move can lead to an injury.
Slips and Falls: Accidents like slipping on a wet floor or falling from a height can result in shoulder injuries, as you might instinctively try to catch yourself during the fall.
Poor Ergonomics: Working at a desk with improper ergonomics can also cause shoulder issues. If your workspace isn’t set up correctly, you may develop shoulder pain from hunching over a computer all day.
How Can Missouri Workers’ Compensation Help?
If you suffer a shoulder injury at work, Missouri Workers’ Compensation can be a crucial lifeline. Here’s how it can help:
Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation will cover the cost of medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications related to your shoulder injury.
Wage Replacement: If your injury prevents you from working for a while, workers’ compensation can provide you with a portion of your regular wages while you recover.
Rehabilitation: It can cover the expenses for rehabilitation and therapy needed to regain strength and mobility in your shoulder.
Permanent Partial or Total Disability: You are entitled to a cash payout for permanent impairments. If you have had a surgery or significant tear you should consult with a Columbia work comp lawyer early in the process to maximize your recovery.
What to Do If You Have a Shoulder Injury at Work
If you injure your shoulder on the job, here are the steps to follow:
Report the Injury: Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible in writing. Missouri law requires this be done within 30 days in writing. Make sure it’s documented properly. Keep a copy of your text, email or fax reporting the injury. This is very important if your employer doesn’t send you directly to the doctor.
Your Employer Gets to Direct Your Medical Treatment: You shouldn’t treat on your own unless it’s an absolute emergency room type injury.
Document Everything: Keep records of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, and any communication related to your injury.
Consult a Columbia Missouri Work Comp Attorney: If you had a significant injury, consider consulting an experienced Columbia Missouri Workers Compensation attorney for guidance. There is no charge to discuss your case with my office. Your case will be handled on a contingency fee basis which means there is no upfront cost to hire an attorney.
Shoulder injuries at work can be painful and challenging, but Workers’ Compensation is there to provide support during your recovery. Remember to report the injury promptly, seek medical help, and document everything.
By understanding your rights and working with a Columbia Missouri Workers Compensation attorney, you can focus on healing and getting back to work when you’re ready. Your well-being matters, and workers’ compensation is here to help you through tough times.
You can get the compensation you deserve, and you don’t have to do it alone. The Krebs Law Firm handles workers’ comp cases on a daily basis in Missouri and it costs nothing to reach out to us for a free consultation. We only get paid if you get paid. Contact our office today.
Don’t try taking on the insurance companies alone. Call The Krebs Law Firm for a free consultation. You need an experienced workers compensation attorney at your side to make sure you get what you deserve for your workplace injury. Call The Krebs Law Firm locally at (573) 886-8976 or toll free at (800) 345-0535.
There is no upfront cost to hiring a Columbia Missouri Workers Compensation attorney for your claim. If have a potential Missouri work comp case and want to make sure you maximize your Missouri Workers Compensation benefits for your workplace injury, then you should speak to an experienced Missouri Workers Compensation attorney sooner rather than later.
Utilize our years of expertise to get the compensation you deserve and let us help each step of the way.