Waldorf, MD Workplace Back Injury Lawyers

Attorneys for Work-Related Back and Spinal Cord Injuries in Waldorf, Maryland

Back injuries are some of the most serious issues that can affect workers. They can occur in workplace accidents or because of physically intense work performed over long periods of time. A back injury can sideline a person for weeks, and extensive medical treatment such as surgery may be needed. Even after recovering, a person may experience chronic pain and other issues that can affect their ability to continue working and earning a living.

While workers can receive workers' compensation benefits to address work-related back injuries, they may encounter problems as they file claims. Employers and insurers may argue that back injuries were not work-related, or they may dispute the necessity of certain types of medical treatment. At Farmer & Klopfer, our lawyers represent workers who have suffered back injuries on the job, helping them secure the benefits that will help them meet their needs.

Types of Work-Related Back Injuries

Lumbar Sprains and Strains

Injuries that affect the ligaments, muscles, or tendons in the lower back can occur when a person lifts heavy objects or is involved in a fall accident. Some sprains and strains may heal with rest and other forms of treatment, but more serious lumbar injuries can cause chronic pain, muscle spasms, and other issues that may place limits on the types of work a person can perform.

Herniated Discs

The discs that cushion the vertebrae in the spine can rupture in a workplace accident or a situation that places stress on a person's back. A herniated disc can place pressure on nearby nerves, leading to issues such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs or other body parts.

Aggravation of Degenerative Disc Disease

A person may experience degenerative disc disease as the tissues in their spine break down over time. This is a natural part of the aging process, but work that involves heavy lifting, repeated bending, or exposure to vibrations can aggravate a person's condition, causing it to progress to a serious medical issue that may affect their ability to work. Workers' compensation benefits provide coverage in situations where work-related activities aggravate pre-existing conditions.

Spine Fractures

The vertebrae in the spine may be fractured in workplace accidents such as falls, being struck by heavy objects, or motor vehicle accidents. These fractures can cause severe pain, and if the nerves in the spinal cord are damaged, a person may experience paralysis that could result in permanent disabilities.

How Back Injuries Can Affect Workers

A serious back injury can cause a great deal of physical pain. The recovery process can be long and difficult. A person's overall health and well-being may be affected, and they may need to make changes to their life and the types of work they perform as they adjust to physical limitations or other ongoing concerns.

Loss of Income Due to Disabilities

After suffering a back injury, a person may be unable to handle the duties involved in their job. They may no longer be able to stand for long periods of time, perform physical labor, or operate machinery. Chronic back pain, the side effects of pain medications, and other ongoing health issues may make it difficult to work in other jobs as well. These issues can be addressed through disability benefits, which can make up for some of the income that has been lost because of the injuries that have occurred.

Impact on Daily Life and Family

In addition to work-related issues, a serious back injury can affect a person outside of work. A person may no longer be able to participate in activities with their family or friends, and they may struggle to become used to new routines and limitations.

Emotional Concerns

Chronic pain and the difficulties of recovering from a back injury can affect a person's mental health. Depression and feelings of frustration or hopelessness may affect an injured worker as they deal with the effects of back injuries.

The Importance of Legal Representation in Back Injury Cases

Back injury claims may be disputed by employers or insurers. The costs of medical treatment for a back injury can be high, especially if a person will need surgery or extended physical therapy. Insurers may try to minimize the extent of an injury, dispute that an injury was work-related, or claim that a person had a pre-existing condition.

Our attorneys can push back against unfair tactics and help injury victims provide the evidence needed to show that injuries were work-related, that certain forms of treatment are appropriate, and that the proper disability benefits should be paid. We can contest the denials of claims and address other legal concerns related to workers' compensation. We can also assist with third-party injury claims that may help a person obtain additional compensation, including compensation for physical pain or emotional trauma.

Contact Our Waldorf Workplace Back Injury Attorneys

After suffering a back injury on the job, you should not have to fight to obtain workers' compensation benefits while you are trying to recover. At Farmer & Klopfer, our attorneys can provide effective legal representation and help ensure that you will have the financial resources you need during your recovery. We will treat you with compassion and focus on addressing any concerns you may have as we assist with workers' compensation issues or other types of claims. Contact our Waldorf, MD work-related back injury lawyers at 301-843-3890 to set up your free consultation.