Injuries caused by lifting heavy objects are among the most common causes of work-related injuries. Employees from all types of industries can sustain heavy lifting injuries. Workers who lift heavy objects on a routine basis have a high risk of injury, but any worker who picks up a heavy object could sustain an injury.
If you are injured at work, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and/or third party compensation. Having an experienced workplace injury lawyer on your side can help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Attorney J. Michael Parsons leads a skilled team of legal professionals dedicated to representing injured workers and their families. He has over 27 years of experience. Using his prior experience representing insurance companies, he fights for justice for workers injured on the job.
Contact Parsons Law Group to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with an Atlanta and Savannah worker’s compensation attorney.
How Our Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help You Seek Compensation for a Heavy Lifting Injury Claim
Lifting heavy objects is one of the leading causes of injuries at work. If you are required to lift objects as part of your job, you may sustain a severe injury while lifting an object. You may also develop a chronic condition over time as you continue to lift heavy objects as part of your daily job.
If you were injured on the job, our Atlanta and Savannah attorneys at Parsons Law Group can help. When you hire our top-rated workers’ compensation lawyers, we will:
- Investigate your claim to assess the circumstances of your injury and evaluate available claims
- Gather evidence supporting your claim, including working with leading medical specialists and other experts as necessary
- Prepare and file a workers’ compensation claim and handle all matters related to your claim
- Work to obtain the maximum benefits for your claim, including workers’ compensation settlements for permanent disability
- Evaluate your case to determine if you may have a third-party claim that could result in compensation other than workers’ compensation benefits
At Parsons Law Group, we have recovered millions in life-changing settlements and verdicts for our clients. Attorney Parsons has a perfect 10.0 rating with Avvo and Justia. We are members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
Contact our office to schedule a free consultation with an attorney. We are here to help you when you need trusted legal advice after a workplace injury.
Physical Strain and Injuries Caused by Lifting Heavy Objects at Work
Many jobs require workers to lift heavy objects. Lifting injuries occur when a worker suffers injuries from picking up heavy objects or repeatedly lifting objects. Lifting objects in awkward positions can increase the risk of injuries. Heavy lifting injuries can include, but are not limited to:
- Back injuries, including herniated spinal discs and damage to the muscles and ligaments in the back
- Fractures and broken bones
- Neck injuries, including pinched nerves and vertebral disc injury
- Shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears
- Muscle sprains and strains
- Knee injuries, including ligament tears, sprains, and weakened joints
- Foot and ankle injuries from dropping heavy objects while lifting them
- Wrist injuries, including fractures and broken bones
Heavy lifting injuries can cause immediate pain. However, you may also develop pain and other symptoms over time. As soon as you notice any symptoms of heavy lifting injuries, notify your employer, and seek immediate medical treatment.
Common Causes of Heavy Lifting Injuries in Georgia Workplaces
Thousands of workers sustain heavy lifting injuries each year. Common factors in heavy lifting injuries include:
- Lack of protective equipment such as back braces and proper footwear
- Loading and unloading errors, including items without property handholds and improperly stacked items
- Inadequate training for proper lifting and use of safety equipment
- Lack of employees to share lifting heavy loads
- Repetitive strain from lifting objects
- Emphasis on the speed of moving objects instead of safety
- Unsafe work environments, including workplaces that have inadequate lighting, uneven surfaces, and excessive heat or cold
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. You can still receive workers ‘ compensation benefits even if you are partially at fault for causing your injury. However, you must report your injuries to your employer within 30 days and file a claim within one year to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
What Types of Workers Compensation Benefits Can I Receive for a Heavy Lifting Injury in Georgia?
Workers’ compensation benefits provide support and help for injured workers as they recover from workplace accidents. Georgia workers’ compensation benefits include:
Medical Benefits
Your heavy lifting injuries may require extensive medical treatment. Workers’ compensation covers necessary and reasonable medical expenses for a work-related injury. Examples of medical care covered by workers’ compensation include:
- Doctor’s bills
- Surgeries
- Occupational and physical therapy
- Emergency medical services
- Medications and medical supplies
- Hospitalizations
- Medical equipment and devices
Generally, you must seek treatment from medical providers pre-approved by your employer. Your employer must provide a panel of physicians for you to choose from or contract with a managed care organization to provide workers’ compensation care.
If you disagree with the doctor, contact an attorney immediately. You may request an independent medical evaluation (IME) for a second option. However, you have just 120 days after receiving income benefits to request an IME.
Income Benefits
Injured workers may also receive wage replacement benefits if heavy lifting injuries prevent them from working. The benefits you receive depend on the severity of your injuries. The types of wage replacement benefits include:
- Temporary partial disability compensates you if your injuries restrict your work duties during your recovery. The rate is two-thirds of the difference between what you can earn now and your average weekly wage before your injury.
- Temporary total disability pays you two-thirds of your average weekly wages if you cannot work during your recovery.
- Permanent partial disability compensates you for a permanent injury based on the impairment rating issued by your physician.
- Permanent total disability provides life-long disability payments if you are 100% disabled because of a work injury.
Depending on the factors in your case, you may receive vocational rehabilitation to train you to do another job if your work injury prevents you from returning to your old job. Determining permanent disability payments can be challenging. The insurance company and your employer may dispute whether you are totally disabled. Before accepting a workers’ compensation settlement, talk with an attorney about your legal options.
Get More Information About a Heavy Lifting Work Injury Claim
Heavy lifting injuries can cause long-term pain and suffering. Some workers may not be able to return to regular work duties. Get the benefits you deserve by working with an experienced Atlanta and Savannah workers’ compensation attorney. Call Parsons Law Group today for your free consultation.