Lower back injuries sustained in the workplace can have significant ramifications, both physically and financially. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over a million people suffer from work-related back injuries annually in the United States. Fortunately, most of these individuals are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which serve to provide financial assistance for medical expenses, lost income, and other related costs.
Types of Lower Back Injuries
Work-related lower back injuries can vary widely in their nature and severity. Some common types of lower back injuries include:
Strained or Sprained Back Muscles: These injuries often occur due to overexertion, such as heavy lifting, sudden movements, or prolonged physical activity. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Soft Tissue Back Injuries: Damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the back can result from sudden twists, impacts, or repetitive strain. This type of injury can cause pain, swelling, and restricted range of motion.
Herniated Disc Injuries: A herniated disc happens when the soft discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture, leading to pressure on nearby nerves. This condition can result in pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area.
Vertebrae Fractures: Fractures in the bones of the spine, known as vertebrae, can occur due to high-impact accidents, falls, or significant force. These fractures can cause severe pain, limited mobility, and nerve damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI): Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting motor and sensory functions below the injury site. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment and ongoing care.
Richard H. Cole
Partner
Thomas F. Hewner
Partner
Donna L. Haslinger
Partner
Vivian P. Roche'
Partner
Keith R. Rosso
Attorney
Tasha D. Frazie
Attorney
Workers’ Compensation Settlements — What to Expect
In New York, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers injury-related costs through a settlement process. However, the amount individuals receive can vary significantly based on several factors.
Factors Influencing Workers’ Compensation Settlement Amounts
Several factors can influence the settlement amount for a lower back injury sustained at work:
Severity of the Injury: The extent of the injury and resulting impairment or disability play a significant role in determining the settlement amount. More severe injuries may lead to larger settlements.
Required Medical Treatments: The nature and extent of medical treatments — including surgeries, therapies, and medications — can impact the compensation amount.
Hospitalization Needs: If hospitalization is required for treatment, the associated costs may contribute to a higher settlement amount.
Need for Surgery: The necessity of surgical intervention can increase medical expenses and, consequently, the settlement amount.
Follow-up Care: Ongoing medical treatments and rehabilitation needs may result in higher compensation to cover long-term expenses.
Lost Wages: Compensation may include coverage for wages lost during the recovery period, affecting the overall settlement amount.
Future Work Ability: The individual’s ability to work in the future, particularly in cases of permanent disability, is a crucial factor in determining the settlement amount.
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Legal Representation
Navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation settlements for lower back injuries can be challenging without proper legal guidance. Experienced attorneys, such as those at Cole, Sorrentino, Hurley, Hewner & Gambino, P.C., can provide invaluable assistance in such cases.
Understanding the workers’ compensation settlement process and the factors influencing settlement amounts is crucial for securing fair compensation. With the help of knowledgeable legal professionals, injured workers can navigate this process with confidence, seeking the compensation they need to move forward.
For personalized guidance and support in your workers’ compensation case, contact us today for a free consultation. At Cole, Sorrentino, Hurley, Hewner & Gambino, P.C., we are committed to helping injured workers obtain the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve, including a fair settlement for lower back injuries.