A back injury at work can leave you dealing with pain, medical bills, and uncertainty about what to do next. Whether the injury happened suddenly or developed over time from repetitive strain, you have the right to seek compensation. A workplace back injury lawyer in Coral Gables can help you understand your options and take the right steps toward recovery.
You don’t have to face this alone. The legal team at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia is here to help. Call 305-845-4470 today to talk with a Coral Gables workers’ compensation lawyer who can explain your rights and help you move forward with confidence.
Workplace Back Injury Cases We Handle
Back injuries can happen in any work environment, from office desks to construction sites. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we assist clients dealing with a variety of job-related back injuries, such as:
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs can result from lifting heavy objects, twisting the spine improperly, or being involved in a traumatic incident like a fall. These injuries can cause severe pain, numbness, and even permanent damage if left untreated. Workers who repeatedly lift heavy loads or who experience sudden trauma are especially vulnerable to this type of injury.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are some of the most serious back injuries that can happen at work. Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, which might affect your ability to work or even handle everyday tasks. These injuries often require major medical care, like surgery, physical therapy, and long-term treatment. In many cases, spinal cord damage can have a lasting impact on your daily life and your ability to earn a living.
Muscle Strains and Sprains
Repetitive motions, poor ergonomics, or sudden movements can lead to muscle strains and sprains in the back. While these injuries may seem minor initially, they can worsen over time and impact job performance. Early treatment and workplace accommodations can often prevent further damage, but obtaining these adjustments requires proper documentation and medical evaluation.
Fractured Vertebrae
A fractured vertebra can happen after a fall, a machinery accident, or another traumatic event at work. These injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care. Damage to the vertebrae can make the spine unstable, which can cause ongoing pain and limit mobility. Recovery might mean taking time off work and adjusting your job duties once you’re able to return.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Jobs that require repetitive bending, lifting, or twisting can cause chronic back problems. Workers sitting for extended periods without proper support may also suffer back pain due to poor posture. Ergonomic assessments and modifications are crucial to preventing such injuries, but employers don’t always provide the necessary resources to protect their employees.
Sciatica
Sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve gets compressed, often from herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. It can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, hips, and legs, making physical tasks more challenging. Workers who sit for long hours or regularly lift heavy objects are especially at risk.
No matter how your back injury happened, our legal team can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. We’ll gather the evidence, handle negotiations, and go to court if needed.
What the Statistics Say
Back injuries are among the most common workplace injuries nationwide. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), musculoskeletal disorders, including back injuries, accounted for nearly 30% of all workplace injuries in recent years. These injuries often result from overexertion, repetitive motion, or sudden trauma. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that overexertion in lifting or lowering is among the most frequently reported work-related injuries.
Additionally, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) indicates that back injuries make up nearly 20% of all workplace injuries. This statistic underscores the prevalence of these injuries and the importance of seeking legal help to secure the benefits you deserve.
Florida employers must follow state and federal workplace safety regulations to reduce these risks. Unfortunately, not all employers take the necessary precautions to protect workers. If you’ve experienced a back injury at work, you can seek compensation for your losses.
Legal Issues We Can Help You With
Here are some examples of situations where a workplace back injury lawyer could help:
- Construction Site Fall: Falls from scaffolding or ladders can cause serious back injuries. A lawyer can gather evidence, work with medical professionals, and help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care.
- Repetitive Strain from Office Work: Sitting for long hours or using poorly designed workstations can lead to chronic back pain. Legal guidance can help connect your injury to your job and seek workers’ compensation benefits.
- Warehouse Injuries from Heavy Lifting: Back injuries from lifting heavy objects without proper training or equipment are common. An attorney can investigate workplace safety practices and help you build a strong case for compensation.
- Healthcare Worker Injuries: Nurses and other healthcare professionals often suffer back injuries from lifting or assisting patients. A lawyer can help file your claim correctly and advocate for the care and compensation you need.
If you’ve experienced a back injury at work, call 305-845-4470 to learn more about how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions about Workplace Back Injuries
We’ve answered some of the questions we hear most often for you below.
Why should I seek compensation for my back injury?
Workplace back injuries can lead to long-term pain, medical expenses, and reduced earning potential. Seeking compensation can help cover these costs and provide financial stability as you recover.
How much is my workplace back injury claim worth?
The value of your case depends on factors like the severity of your injury, medical expenses, time away from work, and potential long-term effects. A lawyer can review your situation and help you understand what you might recover.
How long do I have to file a claim in Florida?
Florida’s workers’ compensation laws have strict deadlines. Generally, you should report your injury to your employer within 30 days, and you have two years to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Commission. If you’re not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, you must file your lawsuit against the at-fault party within two years of the accident date. Contact us today for more information about your specific case.
Can I file a claim if my injury developed over time?
Yes. Repetitive stress injuries, like those caused by prolonged sitting or repetitive lifting, qualify for workers’ compensation if they are directly related to your job.
What if my employer denies my claim?
If your employer or their insurance provider denies your claim, you still have options. A lawyer from Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia can help you appeal the decision and gather additional evidence to support your claim.
Why should I choose Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia to handle my case?
Our experienced lawyers understand the challenges associated with workplace back injuries. We’ll handle the legal details so you can focus on your recovery.
Find Out How We Can Help You
A back injury at work can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of what to do next. But you don’t have to go through it alone. The team at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia can help you understand your options, build a solid case, and figure out the best path forward. Call 305-845-4470 today for a free consultation with a Coral Gables workplace back injury lawyer. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and explain your options for what comes next.
