Workplace Injuries & Workers' Compensation in South Jordan

Workplace accidents can leave you with physical and financial burdens. If you’ve been hurt on the job, there is help available. Call a South Jordan workplace injury lawyer at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks at (801) 500-4000 for guidance on your claim.

We spend much of our time at work and expect our workplace to be safe. However, accidents can still happen. If you were hurt on the job in South Jordan, Utah, you might be unsure what your options are for getting medical care and financial support. That is where workers’ compensation comes into play.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand the stress a workplace injury can cause. You may have to take time off work and face expensive medical bills. You might also feel overwhelmed by the process of filing a workers’ comp claim or wondering whether your injury qualifies. That is why we want to provide you with clear, straightforward information to help you make the best decision.

In this article, we will explain how workers’ compensation laws in Utah work and what steps you should take after an on-the-job injury in South Jordan. We will also discuss how our firm can support you if your claim is denied or if you need help maximizing your benefits. Our goal is to make sure you get the compensation and care you deserve.

Overview of Workers’ Compensation Laws in Utah

Workers’ compensation is a system designed to provide benefits to employees who are injured on the job. In Utah, most employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance helps cover medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses that arise when you are injured at work.

Let’s explore some of the basic principles of Utah workers’ compensation.

• No-Fault System: Utah’s workers’ comp system is generally no-fault, meaning you do not have to prove your employer was negligent to receive benefits. As long as your injury is work-related, you can usually qualify.
• Exclusive Remedy: In most cases, if you accept workers’ comp benefits, you cannot sue your employer for additional damages. However, there may be exceptions if a third party was involved.
• Mandatory Coverage: Nearly all Utah employers with one or more employees must provide workers’ compensation. Certain limited exceptions apply, such as for independent contractors.

• Reporting Deadline: You generally have 180 days to report your injury to your employer. Failing to do so may limit or block your benefits.
• Benefit Types: Benefits often include coverage for medical treatments, temporary disability payments, and possibly permanent disability benefits if your injury leads to lasting harm.
• Legal Protections: Employers are not allowed to fire or punish you for filing a valid workers’ comp claim.

Common Workplace Injuries and Their Causes

Injuries can happen in any work setting, from construction sites to office buildings. While some accidents are minor, others can change your life forever. Understanding common workplace injuries can help you stay aware of the risks and push for a safer environment.

Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries

Slipping on a wet floor, tripping over loose cables, or falling from a height can lead to broken bones, sprains, and head injuries. In many workplaces, poor lighting or cluttered walkways increase the chances of a slip-and-fall accident.

Overexertion and Muscle Strains

Lifting heavy boxes, moving equipment, or performing repetitive tasks can cause strains and sprains, especially in the back or shoulders. Proper training and the use of support gear can help reduce these incidents.

Below are some factors that often contribute to overexertion injuries:

• Lack of lifting equipment
• Poor posture or technique
• Rushed work environments
• Inadequate rest breaks

Machinery Accidents

In manufacturing or construction jobs, machinery accidents can be serious. Workers can face crushed limbs, severe lacerations, or even amputations if the equipment is faulty or if safety guards are not in place. Employers are responsible for providing proper training and safe machinery operations.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Even office workers can face injuries from tasks like typing or using a mouse for long periods. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, or chronic back pain can develop over time. Ergonomic chairs, wrist supports, and regular breaks can help lessen these risks.

Exposure to Harmful Substances

If you work around chemicals, dust, or hazardous materials, you might face respiratory issues, skin conditions, or other serious illnesses. Proper protective equipment and training are crucial to lower these risks.

Workplace Violence

Sadly, workplace violence or assaults can occur. Physical attacks or threats can result in both physical and emotional harm. Employers should have policies and security measures in place to address violence.

How These Injuries Affect Victims

Workplace injuries can lead to steep medical costs, lost wages, and emotional challenges. Sometimes, you may not return to your job or need to switch careers entirely. 

By knowing the common risks, you can stay alert and take steps to protect yourself. However, you can’t control everything. Sometimes, injuries happen even when you follow all safety rules.

That’s why workers’ compensation is there to help cover you. If you’re injured while performing work-related duties, you should be able to focus on your recovery rather than worrying about how to pay your bills. Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks is here to ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury

If you suffer an injury on the job in South Jordan, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Knowing the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights. Here is a simple guide to follow:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care

Your health is the top priority. If your injury is serious, call 911 or get to a hospital right away. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is smart to see a doctor to catch any hidden issues. Remember to inform the medical provider that your injury is work-related.

• Report All Symptoms: Let the doctor know about any pain, dizziness, or discomfort.
• Follow-up: If your symptoms worsen or change, schedule another check-up.
• Keep Records: Save copies of all medical bills, prescriptions, and instructions.

2. Report the Injury to Your Employer

In Utah, you generally have 180 days to let your employer know you were injured on the job. It’s best to do this as soon as possible. Provide written notice if you can. Reporting your injury promptly creates an official record and helps the workers’ comp process move more smoothly.

3. Fill Out Required Workers’ Comp Paperwork

Your employer should guide you through the necessary forms. If they do not, or you are unsure how to proceed, consult a legal professional. Missing paperwork or filling it out incorrectly might delay your benefits.

4. Keep Detailed Records

Document everything related to your workplace injury, including:

• Dates and times of the accident
• Witness statements (if any)
• Medical appointments and treatments
• Communication with your employer or insurance company

These records can be invaluable if you face any dispute about your claim.

5. Follow Doctor’s Orders

Adhering to medical advice is not only vital for your recovery but also for your claim. If you skip treatments or return to work too soon, the insurance company may argue that your injury is not severe. That can reduce your benefits.

6. Consult a South Jordan Workplace Injury Lawyer

Some workers’ comp claims go smoothly, but others face roadblocks, especially if the employer or insurer disputes the severity of your injury. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, handle appeals, and ensure you don’t miss any deadlines. By having legal representation, you level the playing field and protect your rights.

How We Can Help

We understand that recovering from a workplace injury is a stressful time for you. You may be uncertain about your job security, how to pay medical bills, and what steps to take in the workers’ compensation process. 

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we want to take that burden off your shoulders. Here is how we can assist:

Personalized Case Evaluation

When you reach out to us, we start with a thorough case evaluation. We listen to your story and review the details of how you were injured, your medical records, and any communication you have had with your employer or insurance company. By getting a full picture of your situation, we can recommend the best approach to secure the benefits you need.

• Questionnaires: We might ask you to fill out forms that help us capture key details.
• Documentation Review: We look at incident reports, medical records, and workplace safety protocols.
• Strategy Discussion: We talk openly about possible outcomes, including settlement options or, if needed, a formal hearing.

Navigating the Claims Process

Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be confusing, especially if this is the first time you’ve been hurt at work. We guide you step by step:

1. Filing Paperwork: We help you complete all necessary forms and ensure they are submitted on time.
2. Dealing With Insurance: We interact with insurance adjusters on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing or facing pushy tactics.
3. Gathering Evidence: We collect medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions to strengthen your claim.

Our aim is to make sure every aspect of your claim is handled correctly. By doing so, we lower the chance of delays or denials.

Challenging Denied or Reduced Claims

Sometimes, valid workers’ compensation claims are denied, or the insurance company offers benefits that are insufficient to cover the full extent of your injuries. If this occurs, do not lose hope; we can assist you in appealing the decision. This might involve:

• Requesting a hearing before the Utah Labor Commission
• Presenting new evidence or expert testimony
• Negotiating a settlement that accurately reflects your needs

We fight on your behalf to make sure your rights are protected at every stage. We also keep you informed so you know what is happening and why.

Protecting You from Retaliation

You may worry about your employer reacting negatively to your claim. It is illegal for an employer to fire, demote, or punish you simply because you filed for workers’ compensation. 

If you face retaliation, we are prepared to take legal action to defend your rights. Your job and well-being should never be at risk for seeking the benefits you deserve.

Maximizing Your Benefits

Workers’ compensation benefits can vary based on the type and severity of your injury. Our firm works to maximize your coverage by:

• Ensuring all medical treatments are included
• Considering if you are entitled to temporary or permanent disability benefits
• Calculating lost wages correctly, including potential future earnings if you cannot return to work in the same capacity

We want to make sure no stone is left unturned. In some cases, there may be a third-party claim if someone other than your employer was responsible for your injury. 

For example, if you were hurt by faulty equipment, we could pursue a personal injury case against the manufacturer. These additional claims can increase the amount of compensation you receive.

Working with Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks means you have a dedicated team on your side. We combine compassion for your situation with aggressive legal representation. Our goal is to make sure you can recover without the added stress of financial worries or legal confusion.

The firm has successfully secured substantial settlements and verdicts for its clients, demonstrating a strong commitment to justice. Notable case results include 20 million dollars for an electrocution victim in an industrial accident, showing our commitment to injured workers.

When you choose us, you are choosing lawyers who will stand by you from the initial consultation until your case is resolved. We want to see you regain your health and stability, and we will do everything in our power to help make that happen.