Workplace injuries and illnesses are more common than you might expect. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), just over 3 million nonfatal work-related injuries and illnesses are reported by employers in private industry during a typical year. That means there were 3.3 nonfatal injuries or illnesses for every 100 full-time workers. In addition, there were 4,101 workers who died because of on-the-job injuries in private industry, as reported by OHSA.
Workers’ compensation insurance is intended to protect workers injured on the job by covering their medical expenses and compensating them for a portion of their lost wages. Unfortunately, when a work-related injury or illness occurs, it is not always easy to obtain workers’ comp benefits in Rhode Island. The claims process can be difficult, complex and lengthy when employers and their insurers argue against an injured worker’s eligibility for benefits.
At Marasco & Nesselbush, our Rhode Island workers’ compensation attorneys stand by injured workers. Whether you have been injured in a workplace accident or have suffered repetitive motion injuries or an occupational illness, our experienced legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the maximum benefits you are entitled to receive.
Hurt on the job? We always offer a free review of your case. Contact us now for advice about your legal rights.
Common Types Of Workplace Injuries In Rhode Island
All types of injuries occur in the workplace in every profession and field. As reported by BLS, in one recent year, the most common nonfatal work-related injuries, in order of frequency of occurrence, were:
- Sprains, strains and muscle tears
- Soreness and pain
- Cuts, lacerations and punctures
- Fractures
- Bruises and contusions
Although less common, workers also suffer serious, catastrophic and fatal injuries on the job. Examples of such injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries (paralysis)
- Severe burns
- Crushing injuries
- Electrocution
Repetitive Motion On-The-Job Injuries In Rhode Island
In addition to injuries that are caused by single, identifiable accidents, workers often suffer injuries from “repetitive motion” in some aspect of performing the job. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, repetitive motion injuries, also known as repetitive stress or repetitive trauma injuries, can be temporary or permanent. They often involve damage to the tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerves caused by the worker performing the same motion repeatedly.
Carpal tunnel syndrome, perhaps the most well-known repetitive motion injury, affects the nerves in the arms, wrists and hands. It frequently occurs in people who use computer keyboards or work on assembly lines. Other examples of repetitive stress injuries include:
- Rotator cuff tears in the shoulder from repeated overhead lifting or reaching
- Herniated spinal discs caused by repeated heavy lifting
- Elbow epicondylitis caused by overuse of the arm.
Occupational Illnesses In Rhode Island
In addition to injuries, workers may contract diseases and medical conditions primarily as a result of exposure to risk factors in the work environment. Examples of occupational illnesses include:
- Cancer caused by radiation exposure
- Baker’s asthma from long-term exposure to flour dust
- Mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure
- Silicosis from breathing crystalline silica dust
- Lead poisoning
Occupational diseases, as well as accidents and injuries, are covered by workers’ compensation. Time limits for filing occupational illness workers’ compensation claims can be a complex legal issue. If you become aware that you have a work-related medical condition, it is in your best interest to consult with a Rhode Island workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible.
Help For Injured Workers In Rhode Island
Helping injured and disabled people in Rhode Island is what we do at Marasco & Nesselbush. Our practice is focused exclusively on workers compensation, personal injury and Social Security Disability matters, and our lawyers and staff are dedicated to obtaining extraordinary results for each of our clients.
If you have a sustained serious on-the-job injury, or if you are suffering from an occupational illness, contact our firm as soon as possible. You owe it to yourself and to your family to have your case reviewed by the experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Marasco & Nesselbush. We can guide you through the entire process, including filing claims, assisting with appeals of a denied claim and pursuing any potential other, related claims you may have. Our goal is to help you recover the maximum amount from every available source.
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