Spinal cord injuries are one of the most common workplace injuries, with 128,220 back injury cases reported out of the 2,654,700 total workplace injuries reported in 2020. While spinal cord injuries are only one subset of these reported back injuries, they are substantially more serious and damaging than a lesser lower-back muscle strain or nerve pain. Although spinal cord injuries can occur anywhere and at any time, many take place in the workplace—often as a result of heavy lifting or awkward postures. If you’ve suffered from a back or spine injury that left you unable to return to your normal occupational duties, it is important to know your rights and options under workers’ compensation laws. This guide will give you a better idea of what exactly qualifies as a work-related spinal cord injury and how to access compensation benefits if this happens to you or a loved one.

What is a spinal cord injury?

A spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord, which can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and chronic pain. As with all injuries, the extent of these injuries varies from person to person. While some people recover slightly over time, others are left permanently disabled and unable to return to normal or any job function. Permanent disabilities from spinal cord injuries may include: chronic pain, loss of sensation, and paralysis.

What causes spinal cord injuries on the job?

• Falls, slips and trips. Falls are the most common cause of spinal cord injuries at work. 
• Lifting or moving objects. Spine injuries are also caused by lifting heavy objects with improper technique, which can lead to back strain and spinal pain.
• Machinery or equipment. If you’re working with or near heavy equipment, there is always the risk of equipment malfunction during operation that can cause injury if the object strikes someone with enough force.

What Can I Do To Help My Claim?

• Get medical treatment. The health and safety of the injured employee is the top priority in any workplace accident. If you are injured on the job, immediately seek out necessary medical support.
• Communicate. Communication and timing are important. Immediately alert your employer following a work-related injury.
• Provide accurate information. When filling out forms or speaking with an adjuster about your case, be sure that everything is accurate and complete so that there are no misunderstandings later on in the process.
• Keep good records. Document your accident and injury to the best of your ability. Detailed notes, receipts, and pictures can make all the difference when it comes to winning or losing a case.

If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury on the job, it’s important to know your rights as a worker. 

You may be entitled to medical treatment and financial compensation. With more than 20 years of experience, Julie Poirier of Poirier Law Firm knows how to handle spinal cord injury cases. Contact Poirier Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your case with a seasoned attorney.