Some jobs are intrinsically dangerous. Logging, for example, is considered to be the most dangerous job in the U.S., but it’s not necessary to wield a chainsaw to get hurt at work. Workplace injuries are far too common and the injured person is apt to be young. The average age of someone injured at work is 36.
A great many workplace injuries go unreported – as many as 70% according to a study done at Harvard in 2012. The belief is that many of these injured workers thought that they would lose their jobs if the injury was reported. Some may have felt that the injury was not serious enough to report. However, all injuries should be reported.
If an injury is not reported and medical care is needed, the employer may deny medical treatment and unemployment benefits. If the injured worker tries to collect for medical treatment for a work-related injury under his personal health insurance policy, it will likely be denied. The injured worker might end up having to pay 100% of the medical bills. Also, when the injury becomes known, the employer will be questioned by his Workman’s Compensation carrier as to why the injury was not reported on time.
If the injury resulted because of someone’s negligence, it’s critical that it be reported as soon as possible. Worker’s Compensation benefits are limited. When negligence is involved, it may be possible to pursue a personal injury claim. For example, suppose that an injury resulted because a forklift was improperly repaired by an outside party, causing an injury to a worker. Determining the direct cause of an injury can be complicated. Consulting an attorney is essential.
The Parker Law Firm P.C. works hard for their clients, believing that they deserve nothing less than the highest quality legal services at all times. Each client receives a detail-oriented approach to their legal problem and is always kept informed about the case. The firm focuses on a variety of legal areas, including personal injury, bankruptcy, criminal law, employment law, Social Security disability and estate planning. The managing attorney of this family firm is S. Wade Parker. Since receiving his Juris Doctorate in 1994 from the Little Rock Bowen School of Law, Mr. Parker has had considerable legal experience in a number of areas. For personal injury or other problems requiring a skilled, experienced Attorney in York PA, call to schedule a free initial consultation.
