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Working in a warehouse is very demanding. It is also often very dangerous. In an instant, you can become injured while on the job, leaving you with increasing medical bills, severe physical pain, and a future that is suddenly uncertain.
The workers’ compensation process can seem overwhelming, particularly while you are trying to recover from a serious injury. Our experienced Buffalo workplace accident lawyers can help.
Common Warehouse Injuries
Warehouse workers often operate heavy machinery, lift heavy objects, and face other hazards daily. Injuries are common. Some of the most common injuries suffered by warehouse workers are as follows:
- Repetitive stress injuries: Warehouse workers regularly perform the same tasks, such as carrying, lifting, and packing items. These tasks can result in conditions such as tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Back injuries: Due to the physically demanding nature of warehouse work, back injuries are also very common among workers. These injuries often result from sudden movements, repetitive bending, and heavy lifting. A back injury can range from a minor strain or sprain to a more serious injury, such as a herniated disc.
- Muscle strains, sprains, and tears: Warehouse workers must often lift heavy objects, which can cause muscle strains, sprains, and tears. Improper lifting techniques, including lifting objects that are too heavy for one person, can place muscles under immense strain and lead to injury.
- Forklift accidents: Forklift accidents are very common in warehouses. Forklifts move heavy loads in warehouses, and improper operation can cause serious injuries. Unsafe working conditions, mechanical malfunctions, and operator inexperience are all common causes of forklift accidents.
Can All Warehouse Workers Obtain Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Workers’ compensation in New York is a no-fault system, meaning workers can still receive benefits even if they caused or contributed to the accident that led to their injuries. Still, there are certain eligibility requirements employees must meet. These include:
- Employment status: Only employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are not available to workers classified as independent contractors.
- Work-related injury: To obtain workers’ compensation benefits, the injury must have happened during the course of employment and while you were performing employment-related duties.
- Proper notice was given: You must notify your employer within 30 days of sustaining your injury. If this deadline expires, you may forfeit your right to workers’ compensation benefits.
Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Can Help
Warehouse employees are often eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, but obtaining them is not always easy. At Sawers & Sackel, our workers’ compensation lawyer can determine if you are eligible, guide you through the process, and help you obtain the benefits you need. Contact us online or call us today at 716-456-8962.