Scottsdale Workplace Back Injury Lawyer

Scottsdale Workplace Back Injury Attorney

Workplace back injuries can be debilitating, and they’re among some of the most common injuries reported on job sites. These injuries can impact every area of your life, even preventing you from working in the future. A Scottsdale workplace back injury lawyer at Arizona Personal Injury Law Group is dedicated to helping injured workers recover workers’ compensation for their medical bills, missed work, and pain and suffering caused by the distress.

Common Causes of Workplace Back Injuries

Back injuries can occur in almost any work environment. These injuries also have a large range of severity, from mild sprains to more serious conditions, such as herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord damage.

Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2016 revealed that 38.5% of all workplace injuries involved the back. The career with the highest rate of back injuries, at 52.8%, involved nursing assistants. Overall, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that workplace injuries occur at a rate of 2.4 per 100 workers.

Some common causes of back injuries at work include:

• Lifting heavy objects. Improper lifting techniques or lifting items that are too heavy can result in strains, disc injuries, and more serious spinal damage.
• Repetitive motion. Jobs requiring repetitive bending, twisting, or reaching can cause cumulative trauma to the spine.
• Slips, falls, trips. A fall from a ladder, scaffolding, or a slick surface can easily lead to back trauma.
• Vehicle accidents. Delivery drivers, construction workers, and those required to travel for work can suffer back injuries in motor vehicle collisions.
• Falling objects. If a heavy object falls on a worker, it can cause serious neck and spine injuries.
• Poor ergonomics. Even office employees are not immune to back injuries, as prolonged sitting, poor posture, and inadequate chair support can lead to long-term back issues.

Types of Back Injuries in the Workplace

Some of the most common workplace-related back injuries reported involve:

• Lumbar strains and sprains are often caused by overexertion. This soft tissue injury can cause severe pain and limit mobility.
• Herniated disc. Herniated or bulging discs happen when the cushion between vertebrae is damaged. They press on nerves and cause numbness, weakness, and pain.
• Fractured vertebrae. These injuries often occur due to a fall or forceful impact. A fractured vertebra requires immediate medical attention.
• Spinal cord injuries. The most severe of back injuries, this injury can result in partial or total paralysis.
• Degenerative disc disease. This is a chronic condition that worsens over time.

Workers’ Compensation Vs. Personal Injury Claim

Employers in Arizona are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to care for injured employees. The process begins by contacting the nearest workers’ compensation office in Phoenix, located at 800 W. Washington Street.

These benefits cover medical expenses and lost wages for missed work or compensation for long-term impairment if the injury causes permanent disability. Insurance companies often delay or deny legitimate claims, dispute the extent of your injury, or pressure you into returning to work before you’re ready. Our back injury lawyers in Scottsdale fight for your rights and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf.

A personal injury claim, however, arises when a third party is responsible for your injury. Employees are not able to file a claim directly against their employer when receiving workers’ compensation. However, they may file a claim against the third party in addition to receiving workers’ compensation for their job.

Third-Party Claims

Third-party claims might include defective machinery, a car crash by another driver, or unsafe conditions at a construction site. In these cases, you may be entitled to additional compensation, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or full wage loss, which are not available on workers’ comp alone.

FAQs About Scottsdale, AZ Workplace Back Injury Laws

How Do You Prove a Back Injury at Work?

To prove a back injury at work, you’ll need to report the injury to your supervisor immediately and seek medical attention. The medical evaluator creates documentation that links the injury to the workplace. Collect witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and any video surveillance if available. Maintain all records relevant to your treatment, including doctor’s notes and test results.

What Do You Do If You Get a Back Injury at Work?

If you suffer a back injury at work, notify your employer right away. Seek immediate medical attention to begin treatment and prevent the injury from becoming worse. Follow all doctors’ advice and attend all appointments, keeping thorough documentation. File a workers’ compensation claim through your employer’s insurance provider.

If your claim is denied or disputed, consult a workers’ compensation lawyer to protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.

How Hard Is It to Win a Personal Injury Claim?

Winning a personal injury claim depends on the strength of your evidence, legal representation, and the specifics of your case. You must prove the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries. Factors like conflicting accounts, lack of documentation, or shared fault can complicate your case. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so strong legal support can make the difference.

What Is the Average Payout for a Back Injury at Work?

The average payout for a back injury at work varies depending on many factors, such as the severity of the injury, the overall medical costs, and the impact on your ability to work. Workers’ compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. In cases involving permanent impairment, lump-sum settlements or structured payments are possible. Consulting an attorney can help maximize your potential compensation.

Contact a Scottsdale Workplace Back Injury Lawyer Today

Navigating the complex workers’ compensation system and pursuing personal injury claims can be overwhelming. When you’re injured, you need to focus on your recovery, not battling insurance companies.

The knowledgeable team at Arizona Personal Injury Law Group, PLLC, understands state law surrounding workers’ comp statutes and benefits for back injuries. Our Scottsdale workplace back injury lawyers explain your rights and legal options and keep you informed throughout the legal process. Our goal is to maximize the benefits you receive so you don’t feel pressured to accept a smaller settlement.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you recover physically and financially.