Being hurt while on the job can make it difficult, if not impossible, to do your job. These injuries develop over time due to repeated motions, often in workplace settings. Many manufacturing, healthcare, and office employees suffer from these painful conditions. If you have developed a repetitive strain injury due to work-related tasks, our dedicated Florida workplace injuries lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
At Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A., we understand how repetitive strain injuries can disrupt your life. For this reason, we are committed to providing trusted and knowledgeable legal guidance to those harmed. If you have been injured while on the job, contact our team for a consultation.
What Are Repetitive Strain Injuries?
Repetitive movements, awkward postures, or prolonged use of specific muscles and joints cause repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). These injuries commonly affect the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and neck. Some of the most common RSIs include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Trigger finger
- Bursitis
These injuries often worsen over time, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial. However, getting the medical care and financial compensation can be challenging without legal support.
Can You Get Workers’ Compensation for a Repetitive Strain Injury?
If you suffered a repetitive strain injury due to your job duties, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
However, proving that your injury is work-related can be difficult. Many employers and insurance companies may try to deny claims by arguing that your condition is pre-existing or not caused by work.
Our experienced repetitive strain injury attorney can help gather the necessary evidence, including medical records and expert testimony, to support your claim. We fight to ensure that our clients receive the full benefits they deserve under the law.
How to Prove Your Repetitive Strain Injury Is Work-Related
Since repetitive strain injuries develop gradually, proving that they result from your job duties can be complex. Here are key steps to strengthen your case:
- Report Your Injury Early: Notify your employer as soon as you experience symptoms. Delayed reporting can lead to claim denial.
- Seek Medical Attention: A doctor’s evaluation is essential to document your injury and its cause.
- Keep Work Records: Maintain records of tasks that involve repetitive motions, such as typing, lifting, or operating machinery.
- Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: A workplace injury lawyer can help you throuigh the legal process and fight for your rights.
At Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A., we have successfully represented workers with repetitive strain injuries. Our legal team understands the challenges involved and will work diligently to prove your case.
What If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?
Filing a workers’ compensation claim for a Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) can be frustrating, especially if your claim is denied. Many injured workers rely on these benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages, but insurance companies and employers often push back.
A denied claim doesn’t mean you are out of options—there are steps you can take to fight for fair compensation for your losses and expenses. Some common reasons for denial include:
Lack of Immediate Medical Documentation
If you didn’t seek medical attention right away, the insurance company might argue that your injury isn’t serious or isn’t work-related. However, many RSIs develop over time, and a delay in diagnosis is typical. Providing thorough medical records and doctor evaluations can help strengthen your case.
Employer Disputes About Whether the Injury Is Work-Related
Some employers may claim that your RSI didn’t happen on the job or that activities outside of work caused it. This can be frustrating when you know your job duties contributed to the injury. Witness statements, job descriptions, and expert testimony can help prove your case.
Allegations of Pre-Existing Conditions
Insurance companies sometimes argue that your injury is due to a prior condition rather than work-related tasks. Even if you had a pre-existing condition, workplace activities that worsen or aggravate it may still qualify you for benefits. Medical documentation showing the progression of your injury can help dispute these claims.
If your claim has been denied, do not give up. Our best repetitive strain injury lawyer can appeal the decision, gather additional evidence, and represent you in hearings to fight for you.
Filing a Third-Party Claim
In some cases, a repetitive strain injury may result from defective equipment, unsafe workplace conditions, or negligence from a third party. If this applies to your case, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to your workers’ compensation claim. A successful third-party claim can provide additional compensation for:
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost earning potential
- Future medical expenses
Our firm’s top-rated workplace injury lawyer can evaluate your case and determine whether you have grounds for a third-party lawsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve developed a Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) from your job, you probably have a lot of questions about your legal rights and what to do next. RSIs can make it difficult to work, perform daily activities, and enjoy life as you used to.
Workers’ compensation is supposed to help, but the process isn’t always straightforward. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about workplace RSIs and how a top-rated workplace injury lawyer can help you get the benefits you need to move forward.
What Should I Do If I Think I Have an RSI?
If you notice pain, stiffness, or weakness in a part of your body that you frequently use for work, see a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis can help prevent further damage and create a medical record linking your injury to your job. You should also report your injury to your employer as soon as possible to start the workers’ compensation process.
Do I Need a Lawyer for an RSI Claim?
While it’s possible to file a claim independently, having a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of approval. A lawyer can help you gather the proper medical evidence, handle paperwork, and appeal a denied claim. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but a lawyer will fight to get you the full benefits you are entitled to.
How Can I Afford a Lawyer If I’m Already Struggling Financially?
Most workplace injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. This allows you to get the legal help you need without having to cover any costs upfront. Additionally, the attorney will only get paid if you win your case.
How Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. Can Help You
At Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A., we are committed to helping injured workers recover the compensation they need. Our firm offers:
- Free case evaluations
- No upfront legal fees – we only get paid if you win
- A team of dedicated workplace injury lawyers with years of experience
- Aggressive representation against insurance companies and employers
We understand that dealing with a repetitive strain injury can be frustrating and painful. You don’t have to face this challenge alone. Let our experienced attorneys handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.
Contact Our Repetitive Strain Injuries Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is suffering from a workplace injury due to work-related activities, don’t wait to seek legal help. Our team at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. is here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you need. Call our no-win, no-fee repetitive strain injury lawyer today for a free consultation.