Spinal Cord Injury in the Work Force: What You Need to Know

Spinal Cord Injury in the Work Force What You Need to Know

Spinal cord injuries are a serious problem in the workforce. Every year, thousands of people are injured on the job, and many more experience long-term problems as a result of their injury. In some cases, these injuries can be life-changing.

There are many different types of spinal cord injuries, but all of them can be debilitating and expensive to treat. In addition, they often cause long-term health problems for the injured worker. If you were unfortunate enough to suffer an injury on the job, you may be wondering what your options are and what steps you need to take to ensure that your health and rights are protected.

To help you understand your rights and options, here’s a brief guide to spinal cord injuries in the workplace.

It Can Lead to Long-Term Health Problems

Spinal cord injuries often lead to long-term health problems. For example, someone who suffers from an SCI may experience chronic pain, paralysis, and other issues. These problems can be expensive to treat and can have a major impact on your quality of life. And if you are the main breadwinner for your family, an SCI  can also lead to financial hardship.

It is, therefore, important to get the treatment you need as soon as possible. In addition, you should make sure that you have the financial resources in place to cover your medical expenses and other costs associated with your injury. Workers’ compensation should cover some of your costs, but it’s important to understand what is and is not covered. The best way to know what your policy covers is to consult with a spinal cord injury lawyer to get a better understanding of your rights and options. Not only can an experienced lawyer help you understand your policy, but they can also help you file a claim and get the full benefits you’re entitled to.

You May Need Physical Therapy or Other Rehabilitation Services

If you suffer an SCI, you will likely need some form of physical therapy or rehabilitation. The type and intensity of therapy you need will depend on the severity of your injury. In some cases, outpatient therapy may be sufficient. However, in other cases, more intensive inpatient rehabilitation may be necessary.

No matter what type of therapy you need, it’s important to begin treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you start, the better your chances are of making a full recovery. Of course, rehabilitation services can be expensive. Fortunately, in most cases, workers’ compensation will cover the cost of your therapy. However, there may be limits on the amount of coverage you receive. Again, it’s important to consult with an experienced lawyer to understand your rights and options.

You May be Able to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit

In some cases, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against someone other than your employer. For example, if your injury was caused by a defective product or by someone else’s negligence, you may have a case against the manufacturer or another party.

A personal injury lawsuit can help you recover damages that are not covered by workers’ compensation, such as pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses. If you think you may have a case, you should talk to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Not only can they help you understand your rights, but they can also help you build a strong case and get the compensation you deserve.

You May Need to File for Social Security Disability

If your SCI is severe, you may need to file for Social Security disability benefits. These benefits can provide you with much-needed financial assistance if you are unable to work.

To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must first prove that your injury is severe enough that it prevents you from working. To qualify, you must have what’s known as an “impairment-related work limitation.” This means that your injury must prevent you from doing any type of work, not just your previous job. This can be difficult to prove on your own, which is why it’s important to talk to a lawyer who specializes in Social Security disability claims. An experienced lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case for benefits.

You May Need to Modify Your Home or Workplace

Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to make some modifications to your home or workplace. For example, if you use a wheelchair, you may need to widen doorways and install ramps. If you have difficulty using your hands, you may need to install special equipment in your kitchen or bathroom. And if your injury makes it difficult for you to sit or stand for long periods, you may need to modify your workstation.

While it may take some time to make these modifications, they can make a big difference in your quality of life. Just be sure to talk to your employer before making any changes to your workplace. And if you live in a rental property, be sure to get your landlord’s permission before making any changes to your home.

Even though suffering an SCI can be a difficult and life-changing event, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you through this tough time. With the right support, you can make a full recovery and get back to living your life. And if you need help paying for your medical bills or other expenses, an experienced lawyer can assist you in getting the benefits you deserve.