Sometimes work can seem monotonous. While that may become a source of frustration to many, it’s just the reality of our lives. But what happens when this repetitive nature leads to an injury? These are known as repetitive stress injuries and are unfortunately a common occurrence in nearly all industries. As you may already know, workers’ compensation laws in New Jersey cover any accident or injury which occurs while on the job. So, can you receive workers’ compensation in New Jersey for repetitive stress injuries?
Repetitive Stress Injuries
When people think of repetitive stress injuries, often Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the first thing that comes to mind. While this may be the most well-known type of receptive stress injury, it is far from being the only type of injury caused by overuse. Back injuries and herniated disks are extremely common and are often the result of continuous heavy lifting, pulling, or bending. A painful condition known as epicondylitis is the result of overuse of the elbow, as well as torn rotator cuffs from the wear and tear of heavy labor, are also prevalent injuries. Even prolonged standing on hard surfaces can cause serious damage to your feet, known as plantar fasciitis, as well as the joints in the knees.
Performing repetitive tasks as a part of your job is considered by New Jersey law as occupational exposure as outlined in the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act. Some of the repetitive tasks which are covered under the occupational exposure classification include:
- Typing
- Handwriting
- Operating a cash register or other machine
- Lifting
- Sewing
- Packing or unpacking boxes
- Stocking shelves
- Pushing
- Slicing, or other food preparation motions
- Using hand tools, such as hammers, saws, or other tools
- Operating heavy tools, such as jackhammers or pneumatic drills and tools
If you have suffered an injury as a result of these or other repetitive stress operations at your place of employment, you may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits, which include medical treatment for your injury, as well as any lost wages if the injury kept you from working. As all employers in the State of New Jersey are required to have workers’ compensation insurance, there is no reason why your repetitive stress injury cannot be covered by your employer’s insurance.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Right Away for Your Repetitive Stress Injury
As anyone who has had to deal with your employer’s insurance company can tell you, these insurance providers will often try to pay as little as possible in compensation to injured employees. For this reason, you should speak to a knowledgeable and experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Make sure you speak with an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney today at the Law Offices of James C. DeZao, P.A. Our firm is here to assist you with your case and help you claim the compensation you rightly deserve. Call us today at (973) 358-6134 for a free consultation.