Whatever the occupation, almost everyone relies on their hands. When injured, working becomes challenging, if not impossible. If your hand injury happened while on the job, it is likely you may be eligible for Florida workers’ compensation benefits.
Workers’ compensation insurance should cover benefits such as medical treatment, rehabilitation, and a percentage of lost wages. However, insurers aren’t in the business of paying out maximum compensation—and you may quickly find yourself in a situation where you aren’t receiving enough money to make ends meet.
You need an experienced and dedicated workers’ compensation lawyer at Berlin Law Firm to protect your rights. You can be sure that we will work tirelessly on your behalf. Our attorneys and staff provide the highest level of advocacy while simultaneously protecting your job, easing your financial and emotional burden, and attending to the specific needs of your case. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free
Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.
Common Causes of Hand-related Injuries
Accidents can happen anywhere, and workplaces are certainly no exception. In fact, occupational injuries claimed the lives of 315 Floridians in 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Hand-related work injuries can range from moderate to catastrophic.
Some of the most frequent causes of hand injuries on the job include:
Falls and Impact Injuries
Slipping and falling at work from unsecured carpeting, slick surfaces, or other hazards can result in broken wrists. Impact injuries can also be serious, e.g., a heavy item lands on your hands, causing fractures or crush injuries.
Chemical Exposure and Burns
Anyone working with caustic chemicals is vulnerable to burns or other damage to the hands. Most chemical burns only require wound care. However, some require the attention of a specialist for surgical debridement and, occasionally, reconstruction. In addition, exposure to certain chemicals carries the risk of systemic toxicity.
Injuries from Machinery
Lacerations are the most common industrial hand injuries, followed by fractures and crush injuries. Hands getting caught and mangled in machinery are among the most serious.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Constant repetitive motion, such as typing or certain kinds of factory work, can cause a debilitating condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. It is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm.
Reporting and Documentation Procedures
If you have been hurt at work or gradually developed a work-related injury, it is essential to report it to your manager or supervisor as soon as possible. This should be done within 30 days to ensure your eligibility for workers’ compensation. Your employer should provide you with a form to fill out. Once they have received it, they should file a claim on your behalf with their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
Did your employer fail to file your claim? Read more here.
Keep copies of all text messages, emails, or anything confirming that you reported your injury and requested medical treatment to your employer within 30 days. Your employer is required by law to report it to the insurance company within seven days. You should receive a response from the insurance carrier authorizing or denying your claim.
However, insurance companies are known to give their beneficiaries a hard time and deny legitimate claims. The carrier might also make additional payments contingent on further investigation and legal proceedings, such as a deposition. If you haven’t retained counsel by this point in the workers’ compensation process, seeking representation as soon as possible is highly advisable.
Contact Berlin Law Firm
If you suffered a serious work injury/injuries, you are likely entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, insurance companies use different strategies or methods to deny your claim or minimize the benefits you are entitled to receive.
At Berlin Law Firm, our team is familiar with all these tactics, and we know how to fight back. We want to hear from you if you’ve sustained a severe hand injury. Our team is aggressive, experienced, and proactive. Call today for a free consultation.
Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free
Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.
