Does a Work Injury Have to be Caused by a Single Event to Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?

In workers’ compensation cases, victims’ injuries can frequently be attributed to single accidents, such as equipment failure, falls, or vehicle collisions. However, the circumstances of workers’ compensation claims vary widely, and these kind of one-time incidents are not the only qualifying scenarios for recovering benefits. Many on-the-job injuries are the result of long-term strain or exposure to occupational hazards.

Cumulative Trauma Injuries

Cumulative trauma injuries (also known as repetitive strain or repetitive stress injuries) are a type of occupational harm that is caused by frequent stress on the muscles and joints. A common cause of cumulative trauma injuries is repetitive motion. This can include actions that an employee does every day, such as typing or doing the same thing over and over again in an assembly line. These kinds of injuries can also be caused by heavy lifting.

Toxic Exposure and Occupational Illnesses

An employee may develop an illness that was caused by conditions at their place of work, well after their initial exposure. Occupational illnesses often develop over an extended period of time because of an employee’s constant exposure to toxic substances. Occupational illness is another type of gradual harm that qualifies victims for the recovery of workers’ compensation benefits. However, many workers’ compensation laws specify certain diseases which are covered, and may exclude those who have suffered from non-specified diseases.

Do I Have a Workers’ Compensation Case?

The attorneys of Smolich and Smolich are available to advise you on the validity of your case. If you need professional insight into your workers’ compensation claim or are looking for representation, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We are knowledgeable in workers’ compensation laws and the claims process, and are prepared to share our experience with you.