The risk of repetitive stress injuries in the workplace is a growing concern in Colorado and nationwide. At the Law Offices of W. Dan Mahoney, P.C., we recognize the importance of understanding workers’ compensation for these injuries and ensuring employees know their rights. Here is all you need to know about worker’s compensation injuries related to repetitive stress at work.
Understanding Repetitive Stress Injuries
Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) are a category of work-related injuries that result from repetitive motion, forceful exertions, and awkward postures. These injuries, often called musculoskeletal disorders, encompass a wide range of conditions. Whether you are typing at a computer, working on an assembly line, or performing other repetitive tasks, you could be at risk of developing an RSI.
Some common examples of RSIs include;
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a common RSI characterized by numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs due to repetitive wrist movements and the pressure exerted on the median nerve found within the wrist’s carpal tunnel.
Bursitis: Bursae, which are small sacs filled with lubricating fluid, play a pivotal role in cushioning tendons and bones, primarily in larger joints like hips, elbows, and knees. Bursitis is a condition that develops when these sacs become irritated and inflamed within the joint area.
Tendinitis: This condition develops when a repetitive motion inflames one of your tendons. A tendon serves as the cord linking your muscle to your bone. It is the glue that makes your body work smoothly.
RSIs and Workers’ Compensation in Colorado
In Colorado, workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect employees injured on the job, including those with RSIs. The workers’ compensation system is a no-fault insurance program, meaning that injured employees do not need to prove fault on the part of their employer to receive benefits.
For you to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado, you must meet several key criteria:
Employment status: You must be an employee of your company to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Remember that independent contractors might not have the same benefits.
Injury occurrence: Your RSI must have occurred in the course and scope of your employment. This means the injury must be related to your job duties, not personal activities. Anything other than this might affect your chances of compensation.
Reporting: You must promptly report your injury to your employer, ideally within four days but no later than 30 days after the injury. The sooner you report your injury, the smoother the claims process will be.
Benefits for Repetitive Stress Injuries
Colorado’s workers’ compensation system covers a range of benefits for employees with RSIs. These benefits may include:
Medical benefits: Workers’ compensation will cover the cost of necessary medical treatment related to your RSI, including doctor visits, surgery, prescription medications, and rehabilitation.
Temporary disability benefits: If your RSI prevents you from working for a period of time, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. This typically amounts to two-thirds of your average weekly wage. Temporary disability benefits are intended to replace a portion of your lost income while you recover.
Permanent partial disability benefits: Did your RSI result in a permanent impairment? If so, you may be entitled to permanent partial disability benefits. These benefits are based on the extent of your impairment and may provide additional compensation.
Vocational rehabilitation: In some cases, workers with RSIs may require vocational rehabilitation to return to the workforce in a different capacity. Colorado’s workers’ compensation system can cover these services as well.
Remember, time is of the essence. Reporting the injury promptly, seeking medical care, and filing a claim within the required timeframe are essential steps to ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve. Delaying any of these actions can result in complications with your claim.
The Importance of Legal Counsel
Handling the workers’ compensation process can be complex, and it is not uncommon for legitimate claims to be denied or for benefits to be underpaid. If you are in this situation, you should seek the guidance of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. Our attorneys at the Law Offices of W. Dan Mahoney, P.C. can help you obtain the necessary evidence, get through the administrative procedures, and represent your interests in any disputes.
Reach Out to Us Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a repetitive stress injury at work, do not hesitate to contact our experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of W. Dan Mahoney, P.C. for guidance and representation. Your well-being and livelihood are our top priorities, and we are committed to helping you secure the benefits you rightfully deserve. We are always ready to help.
