Understanding Arm and Shoulder Injuries in Wisconsin Workers Compensation
Suffering a work-related injury in Wisconsin grants you entitlement to benefits and rights under workers compensation law. Benefits encompass the financial compensation provided by the workers compensation carrier, while your rights extend to both monetary benefits and control over your medical treatment linked to the work injury. Familiarizing yourself with these rights is crucial for making informed decisions and securing the benefits you deserve after a work injury.
Types of Covered Arm and Shoulder Injuries in Wisconsin
Workers compensation in Wisconsin encompasses three categories of injuries:
- Direct Injury: Occurs on a specific date, such as breaking your arm while working.
- Overuse / Repetitive Use Injury: Covers injuries caused by repetitive motions, like shoulder strain from frequent lifting.
- Pre-Existing Condition Made Worse: Addresses worsened pre-existing conditions due to work injuries, such as aggravating a back injury that requires surgery.
Steps to Take After an Arm or Shoulder Injury at Work
Prompt action is crucial when injured at work:
- Step 1: Seek immediate medical assistance to create a clear injury record.
- Step 2: Consistently describe your injury accurately to medical providers for consistent records.
- Step 3: Report even minor injuries as they can develop into serious issues.
- Step 4: Reporting small injuries early strengthens your claim’s approval chances.
Essential Terms in Workers Compensation
Understanding key terms related to workers compensation is vital
- Healing Period: The time you’re healing after the injury.
- Maximum Medical Improvement: The point at which you’ve recovered as much as possible.
- Independent Medical Evaluation (IME): An examination by the insurance company’s doctor.
Basic Benefits for Arm and Shoulder Injuries
Wisconsin offers standard benefits for injured workers:
- Lost wages (temporary disability)
- Permanent disability
- Medical bills
- Mileage reimbursement for medical appointments
Additional Benefits for Specific Situations
Special situations may warrant extra benefits:
- Retraining and Loss of Earning Capacity: For those permanently unable to return to work.
- Unsafe Working Conditions: Benefits increase if employer negligence contributes to injury.
- Visible Scar: If an injury leaves a visible scar, benefits may increase.
Personalized Guidance is a Call Away
You deserve a worker’s compensation attorney who prioritizes your interests and pursues maximum compensation. At Dahlberg Law Group, our dedicated trial lawyers have an impressive track record of success. We work on a contingency fee basis, ensuring you pay no fees unless we win. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance – contact us today.
