When we think of workplace injuries, accidents like slips and falls often come to mind. However, not all injuries are the result of a single event. Understanding the differences between cumulative trauma and single-events is crucial when navigating workers’ compensation claims.
Understanding single-event injuries
In workers’ compensation cases, single-event injuries are the most straightforward to understand. These injuries occur due to a specific incident or accident that happens at work. For example, if you slip and fall, breaking your arm, or if a heavy object falls on you, causing immediate injury, these fall under this category. Because the cause of the injury is clear and directly tied to a specific event, it’s easier to file a worker’s compensation claim.
Understanding cumulative trauma injuries
Cumulative trauma injuries, on the other hand, develop over time due to repetitive motion or strain. Unlike single-event injuries, these injuries aren’t the result of one specific incident. They typically occur gradually due to repetitive tasks or prolonged exposure to certain conditions at work. Common examples include carpal tunnel syndrome from typing or tendonitis from repetitive lifting.
Because these injuries develop over time, they can be more challenging to prove in a workers’ compensation claim. Employees must show that work activities directly contributed to or caused the injury. This often requires detailed medical documentation and sometimes expert testimony.
Workers’ compensation considerations
One of the key differences between these injuries is the challenge of proving the injury is work-related. With single-event injuries, there’s usually little doubt about how the injury occurred. However, with cumulative trauma injuries, it’s harder to pinpoint when the injury began. It’s also more difficult to prove that it’s related to work rather than other activities outside of work.
When filing a workers’ compensation claim for a cumulative trauma injury, it’s important to act as soon as you notice symptoms. Early reporting can help establish the connection between your work and the injury.
Keep records of any medical visits, diagnoses, and treatments related to your injury. If possible, document your work activities that may have contributed to the injury. This evidence will be essential in proving your case and securing the benefits you need.
Navigating the complexities of injury claims
Cumulative trauma injuries are a reminder that the effects of your daily work routines can accumulate in ways you may not notice right away. By staying vigilant and taking action at the first signs of discomfort, you can safeguard your health and receive fair compensation. In the end, acknowledging and addressing these injuries can lead to a healthier, more sustainable career.
Contact Schmidt, Kirifides & Rassias to schedule a meeting to help with your workers’ compensation claim. Call 610-892-9300 or visit our website.