Your Rights for Work-Related Repetitive Strain Injuries

 Posted on November 30, 2023 in Workers' Compensation

Suppose you developed a repetitive strain injury (RSI) such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis from performing repetitive work duties over time in Illinois. In that case, you have certain rights under the state's workers' compensation system. Workers' comp laws provide important protections and benefits for employees with occupational injuries and illnesses. An Illinois lawyer can help you determine if you have a solid case to move forward.

Types of RSIs Covered

The Illinois Workers' Compensation Act covers repetitive trauma injuries that occur gradually from repeated motions and strain during work responsibilities. Examples of common repetitive stress injuries that are covered include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, tennis elbow, trigger finger, and thoracic outlet syndrome.

For an RSI to qualify for workers' comp benefits, it must be primarily attributable to a claimant's work duties and not solely to other non-work factors. There must be a clear connection between the repetitive nature of the employee's regular work activities and the development of the chronic injury.

Proving Your Claim

To receive workers' compensation benefits in Illinois for an RSI, an injured worker must provide evidence that:

• The repetitive strain injury arose from and occurred within their job's full duties
• The injury was caused by specific work activities rather than individual factors
• The regular work responsibilities substantially contributed to the development of the RSI over time
• The symptoms of the repetitive stress injury manifested gradually over a period while employed performing those duties 

A qualified physician supports the causation between the worker's occupation and the resulting RSI diagnosis.

Thoroughly documenting your injury's entire history and progression, detailed work duties, medical treatments, and the physician's opinion on causation is vital to proving your claim. Consulting with an experienced workers' compensation attorney can significantly help establish your RSI claim.

Benefits Available

If a repetitive strain injury claim is approved in Illinois, there are many expected benefits through workers' compensation insurance, including:

• Complete coverage of all reasonable and necessary medical costs related to the RSI
• Temporary disability payments if you miss extended work time to treat the injury
• Permanent partial or permanent total disability benefits if the RSI causes a lasting impact on your capacity to work 
• Potential vocational retraining if you cannot return to your previous occupation due to permanent restrictions

It is crucial not to settle an RSI claim without fully understanding your rights to current and future medical treatment and disability benefits. Do not hesitate to appeal if your claim is denied. With dedication and evidence, just compensation is attainable.

Contact a Bloomington, IL Workers' Compensation Attorney

If you were injured at work and need to move forward with a claim, a Springfield, IL workers' compensation lawyer can help. You deserve justice in your case. Call Kanoski Bresney at 888-826-8682 for a free consultation.