Workplace neck injuries can happen to anyone, in any industry. They can result from lifting, turning or twisting activities, or from an event involving external force or impact – such as a vehicle collision. Injuries can range from minor to catastrophic. As such, there are many factors that determine how any individual workers’ compensation neck claim is treated.
In today’s post, we address a few common questions associated with neck injuries and workers’ comp.
What symptoms should I look out for?
Pain or limited range of motion in the neck are obvious indicators of a neck injury. However, neck injuries can also cause problems in other parts of the body. You may experience pain in your shoulder, down your arm and even into your fingertips. Such symptoms can be an indicator of a serious injury, and you should get a comprehensive medical evaluation.
What if I had neck problems before?
Even if you have a history of neck problems, they can still worsen at work – and this does not automatically exempt you from compensation. A work-related aggravation of a pre-existing condition absolutely can still count as a work injury. A physician needs to support the aggravation of a pre-existing condition.
How much can I expect to get in compensation?
According to a study by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) conducted between 2018 and 2019, the average workers’ comp claim for a neck injury resulted in a payout of $58,507. However, this is only an average, and it should not be used as a comparison to a specific individual’s case (or the case merits). Individual compensation can vary greatly depending on such factors as:
- Injury severity
- Medical treatment required
- Whether multiple body parts were affected by the injury
- State law–as worker’s compensation claims vary greatly depending on the state law governing the claim.
Who should I consult with after my injury?
It’s important to report your injury to your employer right away. You should also seek prompt medical care from a specialist – such as a neurologist, neurosurgeon or orthopedist – to properly diagnose your condition. Your insurance company may try to dictate where you get your medical care or what kind of doctor you see, but you have a right to get the best treatment possible. If you run into difficulty, you may want to talk to a workers’ compensation attorney to help you sort it out – and get you the care and compensation that you deserve.