Overexertion, or pushing your body too hard for too long, can lead to injuries and health complications. When overexertion occurs due to the actions of another party, including an employer, you may have the right to pursue financial compensation for your losses.
In Texas, many employers do not carry workers’ compensation insurance, which might otherwise cover the financial losses you face following a workplace injury. To get the restitution you deserve, you might need to pursue a claim directly against your employer. A Katy overexertion injury lawyer could help you learn more about your legal options.
Overexertion Injuries and Their Impact
Overexertion injuries can happen any time a worker pushes their body beyond its capability. Common overwork injuries include:
- Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- Sprains and strains
- Slipped discs in the spine
- Stress fractures
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Ongoing fatigue
Not only can overexertion have significant immediate consequences, such as acute injuries, but it can also lead to increased tiredness and risk of chronic pain. The impact of an overexertion injury can last far beyond initial recovery, so contacting a Katy lawyer early on could help injured workers proactively seek the compensation they deserve.
Compensation for Overexertion Injuries
When workers and other individuals suffer losses due to overworking, a Katy overexertion injury attorney could help determine what compensation may be available. Typical claims include compensation for the individual’s medical costs, including potential emergency care or hospitalization, as well as ongoing treatment for injuries. Claims generally also cover compensation for wages lost during an injured employee’s recovery. Necessary time off can be extensive, as many employees must wait until their overexertion injuries fully resolve before returning to work. Furthermore, a claim will generally include compensation for the injured individual’s pain and suffering.
Establishing Liability for Overexertion Claims
When filing a claim against an employer or other entity for an overwork injury, a Katy lawyer could help the injured individual establish liability for the incident. Employers bear a strong duty of care to their workers, meaning they must take the steps necessary to prevent overexertion and other potential injuries. Unfortunately, employers may engage in a variety of negligent practices, including:
- Failing to offer state-mandated breaks
- Forcing or pressuring an employee to continue working despite illness or inability
- Pressuring an employee to take on tasks they do not feel physically able to do, especially in cases where the employee has an underlying medical condition that prevents them from safely completing the activity
- Failing to provide adequate access to water, especially when working in the summer heat
- Forcing or pressuring an employee to work in unsafe conditions, including in excess heat outdoors
- Failing to provide air conditioning, heating, and other climate control that could protect against heat stroke or excessively cold temperatures
- Ignoring a doctor’s instructions about a repetitive stress injury and the time an employee needs to recover
Some employers may choose to focus on productivity rather than the needs of their employees. Unfortunately, this often results in increased risk of overexertion injuries in the workplace.
Discuss Your Claim with a Katy Overexertion Injury Attorney
You may find yourself facing a long recovery period after sustaining injuries due to overworking. Your employer may fight to reduce the compensation paid out for your financial and non-financial losses, but a Katy overexertion injury lawyer could help you fight for what you deserve. Contact Schechter, Shaffer, & Harris today for a free consultation about your claim.
