How Severe Must Back Injuries Be For Personal Injury Compensation?

How Severe Must Back Injuries Be For Personal Injury Compensation?

Back InjuriesIrrespective of their severity, back injuries can be quite painful and can last for months, if not years. These can occur in almost any work environment. The symptoms can range from mild to chronic pain that can make your job extremely difficult, if not impossible. This includes negligent parties who were at fault for your injury. So your back injury doesn’t have to be serious to be eligible for a personal injury claim.

If you are denied compensation from your employer, an Antioch spinal cord lawyer can ensure you can recover damages.

Types of Back Injuries You Can Claim As Personal Injuries

Some of the common types of back injuries that you can file a claim for include the following:

Back Injuries Resulting From Twisting, Lowering, and Lifting

Lifting and lowering heavy objects can strain your back. With time, the sprain can turn into a serious injury. If you do this regularly and feel a sharp pain in your back every time you twist, you should get yourself checked out.

Back Injuries from Prolonged Standing or Sitting

If you type for hours every day or have a job where you stand for the whole day, your back is suffering. If you wear a heavy tool belt all day, you can injure your back seriously unless your employer is proactive enough to prevent it. Since your work can result in injuries, your boss is responsible for your safety.

Spinal Fractures from Falls or Accidents

Spinal fractures and injuries are common on construction sites that do not take safety seriously. These injuries can prove life-threatening or can lead to permanent paralysis.

Herniated disc

The jelly-like fluid between the discs of our spinal cord prevents them from rubbing against one another. With time and repetitive work (such as typing for hours), the fluid can escape its confines because of a rupture. The result is severe back pain which can prevent you from working and maintaining the quality of life you are used to.

Anterior Cord Syndrome

ACS is a serious spinal cord injury that can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis. The condition compromises the sensory pathways that connect the spinal cord to your body. Besides mobility loss, you can also experience other complicated symptoms.

A Chicago spinal cord lawyer will tell you that you need to prove that your back injury is work-related to be eligible for compensation. If it occurred because of something you were doing for your employer, you should not pay out of pocket for your medical bills. Whether the injury occurred on the worksite or off, you are eligible if it occurred because of work.

Illinois Back Injury Statistics

Back injuries rank among the most frequently occurring workplace and personal injuries in Illinois, impacting thousands of residents annually. These injuries can arise from a variety of sources, including workplace accidents, motor vehicle collisions, or even daily activities like lifting, twisting, or bending. The consequences of back injuries often extend beyond immediate physical discomfort, leading to chronic pain, loss of income, and the potential for long-term disability that can significantly affect individuals’ quality of life.

Prevalence of Back Injuries in Illinois

Every year, Illinois witnesses a high volume of back injury cases, particularly in industries known for their physically demanding tasks, such as construction, healthcare, and manufacturing. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, back injuries constitute a significant proportion of workplace-related musculoskeletal disorders, which affect the muscles and skeleton. Furthermore, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that back injuries rank among the top causes of missed workdays. With thousands of cases documented each year, these injuries present a serious concern for both employees and employers.

Common Causes of Back Injuries

Various factors contribute to the high incidence of back injuries throughout Illinois, including:

Workplace Strain – Many jobs require heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or awkward postures, which can lead to muscle strain or spinal injury. In industries like construction, workers often lift heavy materials or equipment without adequate training, increasing their risk of injury.

Car Accidents – Illinois has one of the busiest road networks in the country, leading to thousands of motor vehicle accidents each year. Many of these collisions result in back and spinal injuries, which can range from minor strains to severe trauma requiring extensive medical intervention.

Slip and Falls – The likelihood of slipping or falling increases in environments with wet floors, icy sidewalks, and uneven surfaces. Such falls can result in serious back injuries, particularly among elderly populations or those with pre-existing conditions.

Sports and Recreational Activities – Engaging in high-impact sports or physical activities can heighten the risk of back injuries. Athletes, especially younger individuals, may push their bodies beyond safe limits, leading to acute injuries such as sprains or chronic conditions like disc degeneration over time.

The Financial and Health Impact of Back Injuries

Back injuries can incur substantial long-term medical expenses that encompass everything from initial physician visits to ongoing treatments like physical therapy, surgical procedures, and pain management. The National Safety Council has reported that workplace injuries, including back-related incidents, cost businesses millions of dollars each year due to lost productivity, workers’ compensation claims, and associated medical costs. Moreover, individuals suffering from back injuries may face not only physical limitations but also emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety and depression related to their health and financial stresses.

Prevention and Treatment

To mitigate the risk of back injuries, both individuals and employers should adopt comprehensive strategies that include:

Practicing Proper Lifting Techniques – Education on safe lifting practices can help workers avoid unnecessary strain. This includes bending knees instead of at the waist, keeping loads close to the body, and avoiding twisting movements while lifting.

Implementing Ergonomic Solutions – Employers should invest in ergonomic furniture and equipment, including adjustable chairs, desks, and tools designed to reduce strain on the back and enhance overall comfort during work.

Encouraging Regular Exercise – Engaging in stretching and strengthening exercises can improve spinal health and overall physical resilience. Activities such as yoga or specific strength training can help build core stability, which supports the back.

Stressing the Importance of Seeking Medical Attention

Individuals experiencing ongoing or severe back pain should promptly seek medical evaluation to address possible underlying issues and prevent long-term complications. As Illinois continues to face an increasing number of back injury cases, enhancing awareness and adopting preventative measures remains vital. By understanding the statistics, common causes, and risks, individuals and employers can take proactive steps to safeguard their health and well-being. Recognizing the importance of prevention, timely treatment, and education can ultimately lead to a healthier workforce and community

Contact Our Back Injury Attorneys in Antioch for Legal Consultation

If you or someone you know got injured on the job and are suffering and paying their medical bills because their employer refused to, contact our Antioch back injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens by dialing (847) 395-2200 today. We understand how debilitating these injuries can be and help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t suffer just because your claim was denied. Take action now and get in touch with us for a free consultation on legal options.

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(847) 395-2200