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Navigating Workers' Compensation for a Roofing Accident: What You Need to Know

Posted by James Aspell | Jan 25, 2023 | 0 Comments

In this blog post, we will discuss the steps to take if you or a loved one has suffered a fall from a roof while on the job. We will cover what workers' compensation is and how it applies to roofing accidents, as well as the rights and benefits available to injured workers. We will also touch on common mistakes to avoid when filing a claim, and provide tips for getting the compensation you deserve. Whether you are a roofer or a family member of a roofer, this post will provide valuable information about the process of obtaining workers' compensation for a roofing accident.

  1. Understanding workers' compensation: Workers' compensation is a system of benefits provided to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. In most states, employers are required to have workers' compensation insurance to cover the cost of medical treatment and lost wages for employees who are injured on the job.

  2. Filing a claim: If you or a loved one has been injured in a roofing accident, it is important to report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. In Connecticut, YOU must file your claim with the workers Compensation Commission and your employer within one year of the injury.  Your employer will then file a claim with their workers' compensation insurance provider. It's important to keep records of all medical treatment, as well as any communication with your employer or insurance company.

  3. Rights and benefits: Injured workers are entitled to certain rights and benefits under workers' compensation laws. These may include medical treatment, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation. It's important to familiarize yourself with the specific rights and benefits available in your state.

  4. Common mistakes to avoid: One common mistake is waiting too long to report the injury or file a claim. It's important to report the injury as soon as possible and to keep records of all medical treatment. Another mistake is not getting a second opinion if you disagree with the insurance company's doctor. Also, another mistake is not seeking the help of an attorney if the claim is denied.

  5. Tips for getting the compensation you deserve: It's important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the workers' compensation process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to. It's also important to keep records of all medical treatment, as well as any communication with your employer or insurance company. Additionally, it's important to be honest and cooperate with the insurance company.

The most common injuries from falling off a roof include:

  1. Fractures: Falls from a roof can result in broken bones, including fractures to the arms, legs, and spine.

  2. Head injuries: Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, are a major concern in falls from a roof. These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.

  3. Spinal cord injuries: Falls from a roof can result in spinal cord injuries, which can lead to permanent paralysis.

  4. Soft tissue injuries: Falls from a roof can result in injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, such as sprains and strains.

  5. Internal injuries: Falls from a roof can result in internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding.

  6. Back injuries: Falls from a roof can result in back injuries, such as herniated discs or spinal fractures.

  7. Lacerations and abrasions: Falls from a roof can result in cuts and scrapes to the skin.

It's important to note that these injuries can range from minor to severe and can have long-term effects on the health and well-being of the individual. It's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a fall and to follow the proper steps for obtaining workers' compensation.

Workers' compensation will typically cover the following for an employee injured on the job:

  1. Medical expenses: Workers' compensation will cover the cost of medical treatment for your injuries, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and physical therapy.

  2. Lost wages: If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, workers' compensation will provide benefits to replace a portion of your lost wages.

  3. Vocational rehabilitation: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job, workers' compensation may provide benefits to help you retrain for a new job or career.

  4. Permanent disability benefits: If your injuries result in a permanent disability, workers' compensation may provide benefits to compensate for your reduced earning capacity.

  5. Death benefits: If an employee dies as a result of a work-related injury, workers' compensation may provide benefits to the employee's dependents.

It's important to note that the specific benefits and coverage provided by workers' compensation vary by state and the specific circumstances of the injury. It's important to familiarize yourself with the workers' compensation laws in your state and to work with an experienced attorney to help you navigate the process.

Should you have any questions, feel free to call the Connecticut workers compensation Attorneys at James Aspell, P.C., Connecticut's Workplace Injury specialists (tm)

About the Author

James Aspell

Principal since August 1, 2006 James F. Aspell is the principal and managing attorney of the firm which he started in 2006 following 20 years of litigation practice in a mid -size firm in Hartford, Connecticut. Jim focuses his practice in the areas of worker's compensation and personal injury l...

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