The foot and ankle are the most complex joints in the human body. A series of bones, tendons, muscles, ligaments, and nerves work together to allow you to walk, run, jump and perform all of your daily activities. It is not surprising that injuries can happen at any time and may require a lifetime of treatment depending on the severity.
There are many workplace-related injuries, but few are as severe as foot or ankle injuries. They can be caused by several factors, such as tripping over uneven ground, falling from a height, and being involved in accidents.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated about 100,000 non-fatal workplace injuries that require hospitalization each year in the United States, and more than half involve the ankle or foot.
A study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that in 2013 there were 523,600 total non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses involving the lower foot.
Injury claims for ankles and feet are a common type of workers’ compensation claim. These injuries are excruciating and can prevent employees from working for long periods. The causes of these types of damages are varied, but they include:
- Strain or sprain
- Fracture
- Abrasion
- Ligaments and tendons damage
- Soft tissue injuries
These are some common causes of ankle and foot injury claims at work.
How to file Ankle and Foot Injury Claims?
If you have sustained an ankle or foot injury in a workplace, you are entitled to receive compensation. The employer must provide for the safety of all their employees; it is their liability to provide a safe working environment. Your employer has insurance for this purpose and is required by law to ensure that your medical bills are covered. You stand to gain from filing a claim, as you will get compensated financially for your suffering and pain caused by an accident.
Foot injuries are common, especially among people that have to stand or walk for long periods. While there are methods available to reduce the risk of injury and speed up recovery, it’s essential to know how to file a foot injury claim if your accident ends up causing damage.
Here are the steps to filing an ankle and foot injury claim:
- The first thing you have to do is report the injury to your employer immediately, and it is highly advisable to have a co-worker go with you. The reason behind this is that if the compensation insurance company denies your claim and sues you or sues your employer, they would need evidence that you were injured at work. As a general rule, all work-related injuries must be reported immediately to your employer, and an OSHA report filed within thirty days of the incident.
- The second thing you will need is medical documentation of your injury. You will also want to prove that the accident was not your fault. Many companies require a note from a doctor before they will approve your claim. Finding the right doctor to treat your foot Injury is essential as well. Use online reviews and referrals to find an experienced physician who can properly diagnose you and provide you with a plan to treat your foot injury. It would be best if you worked with a professional who understands the latest treatments for your injury, so it’s essential to do some research before hiring anyone.
- Seek legal advice from a Workers’ Compensation attorney who has experience in Ankle and Foot injury cases. The legal process can be complicated, and many nuances can be challenging to understand without an expert by your side.
To avoid making mistakes while filing a Work Injury Claim, refer here.
In conclusion, if you were injured while on the job and are considering filing a workers’ compensation claim, it’s essential to work with an Ankle and Foot Injury lawyer who has experience handling these types of cases. Experienced Workers’ Compensation attorneys at DYS Law Group will help ensure that all the necessary details are included in your application and will carefully represent you throughout the claim process.
