If you’re a full-time worker, did you know these hours take up roughly one third of your life? If you’re at work that often, an accident is highly likely to occur at some point. All employers are required to carry worker’s compensation insurance to protect their employees, with very few exceptions. But sometimes workers comp claims can get sticky and you may need to hire legal help to get your benefits. KSL.com reported last month on a Utah man that lost both his legs on the job and his struggle to get compensation for his injuries. This gentleman worked for a railroad routing company when he tripped and fell under the wheels of a freight car. He lost both legs just above his knees. For a few years, workers comp paid out for his medical treatment and the many necessities as well as a monthly pension. His employer found him a light-duty job to keep him on as a full-time employee so he could continue to provide for his family. He also needed to work for his mental wellbeing and stability of life.
At some point, another insurer took over his claim and noticed he was working full time. They said that if he was permanently disabled, he shouldn’t be able to work at all. KSL.com states that the insurer “cited a statute which allows an insurer to cut disability benefits in half if a so-called permanently and totally disabled worker is employed and earns a salary above a certain threshold. They argued that he could not be permanently and totally disabled and still work a full-time job.” Because of this, the gentleman had to seek legal help to restore his lost benefits. Under Utah law, losing two limbs is considered a “permanently and totally disabling condition” and states that working with such a disability may not be considered in reducing a person’s benefit. Because of this law and the help from legal representation, he can continue working his light-duty job to support his family while also receiving necessary disability benefits.
Reporting Your Injuries
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2019, about 2.8 out of 100 full-time workers were injured on the job. These injuries consisted mostly of sprains, strains, and tears. However, out of the many injuries that occur on the job, a lot of them don’t get reported. Worker’s compensation is in place to protect employees, even if it can be tricky to navigate. If you’re injured on the job, don’t keep it hush. Report it and get legal help if needed.
Workplace injuries can be lessened if employees are trained in safety best practices and in basic first aid response. Safety training should be a top priority so your staff can be proactive when performing their duties. But when an injury does occur, it’s not only helpful if employees know how to administer medical aid before medical professionals show up, but it can also save a life. For all your safety needs in the office and in the home, from training resources to quality products, visit Shield-Safety.