WORKERS’ COMPENSATION OCCUPATIONAL CLAIMS
Many people believe that if they are not injured in a specific event then their injuries are not covered under workers’ compensation. This is not true. There are many medical conditions that develop over time to various body parts due to the type of work one performs. For example, hearing loss claims for workers in land factory settings, breathing loss claims for workers who work with and around asbestos, chemicals and other pulmonary irritants, and yes even neck, back, shoulder and hand conditions may also be related to one’s work.
So long as your doctor states that your condition is related to the type of work you do, your claim should be covered by workers’ compensation.
Unfortunately, these claims are almost always denied by workers’ compensation companies and litigation to resolve the issue is necessary. You should not be afraid to start an occupational claim so long as you can document your injury and be able to explain to a Judge how it is that your medical condition is related to your type of work. You must bring initiate this type of claim within two years from the date you are aware of the relationships between your medical condition and your employment or your case may be dismissed.
