Industrial workers can sustain long-term injuries caused by repeated stress on the body. Unlike a single accident, these injuries develop over months or years.
Unfortunately, many workers do not realize they have a claim until the pain becomes severe. Understanding cumulative trauma claims can help workers get the medical care and benefits they need.
What are cumulative trauma injuries?
Cumulative trauma injuries happen over time due to repetitive motions or constant exposure to harmful conditions. These injuries affect muscles, joints, nerves, and hearing. Unlike single-incident injuries, such as a broken bone from a fall, cumulative trauma injuries develop gradually.
For example, workers exposed to loud noise, such as construction crews or factory employees, may lose hearing after years in such conditions. Repeated lifting, bending, or twisting can cause long-term damage to knees, shoulders, wrists, and other joints.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is common among office workers, machinists, and assembly line workers who use their hands constantly. These individuals may develop numbness and pain in their wrists. Frequent heavy lifting or long hours in awkward positions can also lead to chronic pain in the neck or back.
Because these injuries develop slowly, workers may not connect their pain to a job right away. However, they still have the right to file a claim.
How can a person file a cumulative trauma claim?
California allows workers to file claims for injuries that happen over time. The date of injury is usually the day a worker first missed work, sought medical treatment, or learned their injury was job-related. Filing a claim as soon as possible is important.
To start the process:
- Report the injury: An injured worker should officially notify the employer upon realizing the job has caused long-term pain or health issues.
- Seek medical help: A doctor can diagnose the injury and determine if it is work-related.
- Document symptoms: The injured person should keep records of pain, doctor visits, and how the injury affects daily tasks.
- File a workers’ compensation claim: This allows access to medical treatment and possible wage benefits.
Cumulative trauma claims can take time to process, but workers should not ignore their pain. Getting proper medical care and filing a claim can lead to better health and financial stability.