Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Heat-Related Injury?
When you are working out in the summer heat, you might assume that this is nothing more than a part of your job. However, working under very high temperatures can come with health risks. If you have suffered medical problems as a result of being exposed to excessive heat, you might be entitled to compensation for medical bills and for any time you are out of work under workers' compensation insurance.
How Workers' Compensation Insurance Works
Workers' compensation insurance is a form of insurance that most employers are required to purchase. It is meant to pay for any injuries that occur at work that are considered to be work-related. For example, if you suffered from a heat stroke because you were in your car for an extended period while at work without being involved in work-related activities, you might not be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
However, there are some lines of work that might subject you to very high temperatures. If you become injured as a result, you will need to file a workers' compensation claim as soon as you can by informing your employer.
The Effects of Excessive Heat
If you are in the sun for an extended period of time, you might suffer from sunburns. While most sunburns are mild, some are severe and might require several weeks' worth of recovery. If you are so badly sunburned that you believe you cannot work for a period of time, make sure to bring this up with your employer.
If you are suffering from a heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, your body temperature becomes higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This can cause internal organs to swell and can cause them to become permanently damaged.
Compensation for Injuries Caused By Heat
Workers' compensation is a no-fault system. As long as you were engaged in work-related activities at the time of your injuries, you will be able to file a workers' compensation claim and may be compensated for your injuries. However, you will need solid evidence to prove that you were actually seriously injured to receive substantial benefits.
If your workers' compensation claim is denied and you're concerned about whether you will be able to win the appeal, make sure to contact a workers' compensation insurance attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney will be able to predict whether you will have a case and will argue on your behalf.
Contact workers' compensation lawyers, such as Neifert Byrne & Ozga, near you to learn more.
