Are Repetitive Strain Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation in IL?

medical provider wrapping injured wrist

While some industries are undoubtedly more dangerous than others, like railroad or construction work, employees across all areas of work can sustain injuries that impact their ability to work and earn a living. One of the most common injuries reported by workers, from cashiers and medical assistants to warehouse workers and heavy equipment operators, are repetitive strain injuries. As such, if you have developed this injury, you may wonder if this is covered under workers’ compensation due to the fact that it happened over time. The following blog explores what you should know abou these difficult times, including the importance of working with an Illinois workers’ compensaiton attorney to assist you through this process.

What Are Repetitive Strain Injuries?

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), as the name suggests, are injuries that occur over time as a result of repetitive motions that cause stress and strain on parts of the body. This is often considered a cumulative injury, as it develops over time rather than one traumatic event.

While any act of repeated motion can result in this injury, you’ll find that workers often suffer these injuries due to the nature of their jobs. For example, those who type all day, work on assembly lines, lift heavy objects, or operate heavy machinery can develop these injuries over the course of their employment. These injuries impact the tendons, soft tissue, and ligaments of employees.

These injuries can manifest in several different conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Can Workers’ Comp Cover Expenses Related to These Injuries?

Unfortunately, many assume that workers’ compensation only covers injuries that result from one singular accident, like a slip and fall or electrocution. However, this is far from the truth, as you can seek compensation for a cumulative injury under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.

In order to recover the compensation you deserve, it’s imperative to understand that the injury you’ve endured must have occurred at your place of work as a part of your regular job duties. Additionally, you must report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Generally, Illinois imposes a forty-five-day limit on when you must report your injury to your supervisor. However, as a repetitive stress injury is cumulative, you must report this injury as soon as you suspect it.

Unfortunately, the fact that these are cumulative injuries can complicate your case, as your employer or their insurer may deny your claim because there is no proof of when the injury actually happened. However, working with an experienced attorney can help show that your job duties directly contributed to the injury you’ve sustained, and it was promptly reported to your employer.

If you believe you have developed a repetitive strain injury as a result of overuse while on the job, connecting with an experienced attorney with the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore as soon as possible is in your best interest. Not only can our team guide you through this process to help ensure there are no unnecessary delays, but we can also assist you in the fight for the compensation you deserve. When you need help, do not hesitate to contact our team today.

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