Nevada Workers’ Compensation: Back Injuries

Workers’ compensation is available to employees who suffer trauma or illnesses that occur while on the job. In the state of Nevada, workers’ comp laws require employers to cover their employees in case of an on-the-job injury. This includes coverage for back injuries, which are one of the most common workplace injuries.

Causes of Back Injuries at Work

Back injury can occur in any industry but is particularly prevalent in jobs involving heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or awkward postures. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, overexertion and bodily reactions, which include lifting and carrying objects, are the leading causes of workplace injuries in the United States. These types of injuries can range from mild strains to more serious conditions such as herniated discs or spinal fractures. (such as lifting, pushing or pulling) account for more than one-third of all work-related injuries.

Reporting Your Back Injury

If an employee suffers a back injury on the job in Nevada, they should immediately report it to their employer and seek medical attention. Under Nevada’s workers’ comp laws, employees have the right to choose their own doctor for treatment. However, employers may require employees to undergo an independent medical evaluation.

In cases where an employee’s back injury prevents them from returning to work, they may be eligible for temporary or total disability benefits. These benefits provide partial wage replacement during the employee’s absence due to their injury. If the employee’s back injury results in permanent impairment, they may be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits.

Documenting Your Back Injuries

Employees should document their back injury and any treatment they receive and keep track of all related expenses. This information can help ensure that they receive the maximum amount of compensation they are entitled to under Nevada workers’ comp laws.

Back Injuries Can Be a Challenge to Prove

One challenge in workers’ compensation cases involving back injuries is proving work-relatedness. Employers and insurance companies may argue that the injury was a preexisting condition or unrelated to work. Employees should seek medical attention immediately after an injury occurs and report it to their employers as soon as possible.

In cases where there is a dispute over the cause of the back injury, it may be necessary to seek legal representation. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help gather evidence and arguments to support an employee’s benefits claim.

How a Lawyer Can Help if You Have a Pre-Existing Condition

One common concern for employees with a pre-existing back condition is whether or not they are still eligible for benefits if their injury is aggravated by work. In Nevada, workers’ compensation laws state that an employee can receive benefits for the aggravation of a pre-existing condition as long as the employment was a major contributing cause of the aggravation.

If you have a pre-existing back condition and suffer a work-related injury, it is wise to consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer. They can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the full benefits you deserve under Nevada law.

Worker’s Compensation Attorney Jay Short

You can rely on Jay Short, Attorney at Law if you need to recover work-related injury and illness benefits. All of our cases are workers’ comp, and we are dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve. Please feel free to contact us at (775) 786-2006 any time of the day or night for a free consultation. Additionally, we provide online contact options.