You Can Claim Workers’ Compensation Benefits For Multiple Related Injuries

Last updated on July 18, 2024

If you have injured more than one part of your body during the same workplace accident, you are entitled to workers’ compensation for the entire resulting disability. This is also true if your original injury causes a later injury.

As you can imagine, a workplace injury that involves multiple body parts can be factually and legally complex. Therefore, it’s a good idea to consult a skilled attorney like ours at Wertz Law Firm, P.C. Our lawyers bring more than 60 years of combined legal experience to each case and client. They are ready to represent you and obtain all of the workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled under Iowa law.

Who Is At Risk For Multiple Injuries?

Multiple injuries in the workplace can affect workers across various industries. Understanding the common causes can help employees and employers take preventive measures. Workers are at higher risk for multiple injuries in situations involving:

1. Heavy machinery accidents: Operators and nearby workers can suffer injuries to multiple body parts if machinery malfunctions or safety protocols are not followed.
2. Serious falls: Falls from heights or on slippery surfaces can result in injuries to the head, back, limbs and internal organs.
3. Vehicle accidents: Workers who drive as part of their job may experience multiple injuries in car or truck collisions.
4. Repetitive strain: Over time, repetitive motions or improper ergonomics can lead to injuries in multiple areas, such as the shoulders, wrists and neck.
5. Overexertion: Lifting heavy objects without proper support or technique can cause injuries to the back, knees and other joints.

While understanding these risk factors is crucial, it’s equally important to recognize how multiple injuries can manifest in various workplace scenarios.

Recognizing How Multiple Injuries Develop

Multiple injuries can occur in various ways, and it’s crucial to recognize both immediate and long-term effects:

1. Simultaneous injuries: A single incident, such as a fall or machinery accident, can cause injuries to multiple body parts at once. For example, a worker might suffer a head injury, shoulder dislocation and knee damage in one fall.
2. Cascading effects: An initial injury can lead to subsequent injuries over time. For instance, a worker with a back injury might alter their gait, leading to hip or knee problems.
3. Overcompensation injuries: When suffering an injured body part, workers may overuse other areas, causing new injuries. A worker with an injured right arm might overuse their left arm, resulting in strain or repetitive stress injuries.
4. Cumulative trauma: Some workers experience multiple injuries due to long-term exposure to hazardous conditions or repetitive motions. This can affect various body parts simultaneously or progressively.

It’s important to report all injuries, even those that seem minor at first, as they may develop into more serious conditions or contribute to multiple injury claims. Consulting with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to put you on the fast track for compensation for all related injuries. Our legal team can answer any inquiries you might have about the workers’ compensation process, whether you’re suffering multiple injuries or one that could lead to more medical complications.

Don’t Wait To Seek Legal Help – Reach Out Today

With an office in Cedar Rapids, Wertz Law Firm, P.C., serves injured workers throughout Iowa. If you’d like to learn more about your legal options, we invite you to contact us to request a free initial consultation. Just call 319-774-2687 or submit an online contact form.