Injuries Requiring Surgery

At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, our legal team specializes in providing legal assistance to clients who have been injured in the workplace. Workplace injuries can be devastating, particularly those that require surgery.

In such cases, the injured worker may require significant medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time off work, resulting in significant financial hardship. This is where workers’ compensation benefits come into play. Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide injured workers’ with financial assistance to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses related to their injury.

However, navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex and confusing, particularly for those who have suffered a serious injury. That’s where our legal team at Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, can help. With years of experience handling workers’ compensation claims, we can provide injured workers’ with the guidance and support they need to secure the benefits they deserve.

Common Workplace Injuries That Require Surgery

There is no definitive list of workplace injuries that may require surgery in Florida, as the specific injuries and their severity can vary widely depending on the circumstances. However, some common types of workplace injuries that may require surgery in Florida include the following:

• Fractures and dislocations: These injuries can occur from falls, being struck by objects, or other accidents in the workplace and may require surgery to realign and stabilize the affected bones.
• Joint injuries: Joint injuries such as torn ligaments, tendons, and cartilage can occur from repetitive strain or sudden trauma in the workplace and may require surgery to repair or replace the damaged tissues.
• Spinal injuries: Spinal injuries, such as herniated discs or fractured vertebrae, can result from falls, heavy lifting, or other accidents in the workplace and may require surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or stabilize the affected area.
• Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can result from falls, being struck by objects, or other accidents in the workplace and may require surgery to remove blood clots or relieve pressure on the brain.
• Burn injuries: Burn injuries can occur in a variety of workplace settings, such as kitchens, manufacturing plants, and chemical processing facilities, and may require surgery to remove damaged tissue, graft new skin, or repair damage to internal organs.
• Amputations: Amputations can occur from accidents involving heavy machinery, tools, or vehicles and may require surgery to remove the affected limb and to repair any other associated injuries.
• Eye injuries: Eye injuries can occur from exposure to chemicals, flying debris, or other hazards in the workplace and may require surgery to repair any damage to the eye or surrounding tissue.
• Repetitive stress injuries: Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis can result from repeatedly performing the same motions and may require surgery to alleviate pressure on affected nerves or repair damaged tissues.

It is important to note that the specific injuries and their severity can vary widely depending on the workplace and the nature of the job. If you have been injured in the workplace and require surgery, it is essential to seek medical attention and legal guidance to help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and obtain the benefits you are entitled to.

Does Surgery Increase the Value of Your Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Requiring surgery for a workplace injury can increase the value of your workers’ compensation claim. This is because the cost of medical treatment, including surgery, can be a significant component of workers’ compensation benefits. In Florida, workers’ compensation benefits typically cover medical expenses, wage replacement, and other related costs associated with a workplace injury. The benefits you receive will depend on the severity of your injury and the extent of your disability, among other factors.

If your injury requires surgery, the cost of the surgery and any associated medical expenses such as hospitalization, anesthesia, and follow-up care will be considered when determining your workers’ compensation benefits. In addition, if the surgery results in permanent impairment or disability, you may be eligible for additional benefits to compensate for the long-term impact of the injury on your earning capacity.

What Steps To Take if You Need Surgery for Your Work-Related Injury

If you need surgery for a work-related injury, there are several steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:

• Seek medical attention: The first and most important step is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Tell your healthcare provider that your injury is work-related, and provide them with as much information as possible about how the injury occurred and the symptoms you are experiencing.
• Notify your employer: It is important to notify them of your injury and your need for surgery as soon as possible. This will start the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim and ensure that your employer and insurance carrier know your injury and medical needs.
• Consult with a workers’ compensation attorney: It is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can guide you through the claims process and help you navigate the complex legal and medical issues involved in your case. An attorney can help you understand your rights, gather and submit the necessary medical evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions: It is important to follow them regarding your surgery and post-operative care. This will help ensure you make a full and timely recovery and minimize the risk of complications or long-term disability.
• Keep detailed records: Keep detailed records of all medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with your injury and surgery. This will be important for filing and documenting your workers’ compensation claim and ensuring you receive the full benefits you are entitled to.

By taking these steps, you can protect your health and your legal rights and increase your chances of receiving the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.

Contact Our Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorneys for Help with Your Claim

Experiencing a workplace injury requiring surgery can be traumatic and life-changing. However, if you take the proper steps, you can protect your health, finances, and legal rights. Seeking medical attention, notifying your employer, consulting with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney, following your doctor’s instructions, and keeping detailed records can help you navigate the workers’ compensation claims process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

If you have suffered a workplace injury and require surgery, don’t hesitate to seek help to protect yourself and your family.