Stephen Hasner | Workers' Compensation | August 31, 2017
Problems with the back and neck are some of the most common injuries suffered by employees. While some cases involve minor strains or pulls, others are more serious and can have permanent and debilitating effects. For instance, neck pain can cause headaches as well as pain in the upper back and shoulders.
Furthermore, relief can often be achieved only through surgical intervention, which can be extremely expensive. Fortunately, those who are injured while on the job can receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages through Georgia’s workers’ compensation program. If you were injured at work and need to file a claim, it is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can walk you through the process.
Vulnerable Employees
The spine is made up of a series of bones known as vertebrae that run from the base of the skull to the tailbone. When the vertebrae or surrounding tendons become damaged, it can cause serious pain and, in some cases, limited mobility. Often, these types of injuries are the result of repeated stress and strain over a long period of time, such as lifting heavy objects, while others are caused by sudden, traumatic events, such as a fall.
Certain workers are more likely to sustain neck and back injuries, especially those whose jobs involve lifting, twisting, bending, or working at heights, such as:
- Construction workers
- Nurses
- Warehouse employees
- Airport workers/baggage handlers
- Assembly line employees
- Laborers
- Delivery workers
These employees often suffer from herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, spinal cord damage, neck sprains, and pinched nerves. Fortunately, the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act covers all of these injuries, whether they stem from a traumatic accident or repetitive motion.
The law also covers aggravations of pre-existing conditions or injuries, so just because a person has experienced neck or back pain in the past does not mean that he or she will later be barred from coverage.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Many workers who injure their necks and backs are required to take time off from work until they fully heal. Fortunately, workers’ compensation will help cover lost wages as well as medical expenses during this time period. This is especially important in these types of cases because neck and back injuries are notoriously difficult and expensive to diagnose.
For instance, injured workers are usually required to undergo MRI and CT scans in addition to extensive testing because X-rays do not reveal nerve damage.
The cost of treatment can also quickly add up to overwhelm a victim’s finances, especially if surgical intervention is necessary. Those suffering from back and neck injuries may also need to receive steroid injections, take pain medication, and undergo months of physical therapy, all of which is covered by workers’ compensation benefits.
Contact the Savannah Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Hasner Law PC For Help
Suffering an injury while at work can leave employees feeling helpless and overwhelmed. At Hasner Law PC, we dedicate ourselves to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve, so if you sustained a back or neck injury at work.
For more information, please contact the Savannah workers’ compensation law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:
Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878
Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334
