Greenville Overexertion Injury Lawyer
Are you struggling to recover after an overexertion injury in Greenville? These injuries can disrupt your life, prevent you from working, and strain your finances. The good news is that you could be entitled to compensation for your losses – and a knowledgeable attorney can help you pursue it.
At Hardison & Cochran, our injury lawyers can guide you through the legal process, gather the evidence necessary to build your case and pursue fair compensation for your injuries. Whether you have a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit, we are here to help.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation to take the first step toward getting the support you need.
What Classifies as an Overexertion Injury in Greenville?
Overexertion injuries occur when physical activity places too much strain on the body and causes harm. These injuries often affect soft tissues like muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
An overexertion injury can develop in one of two ways: gradually or suddenly. Gradual overexertion injuries happen over time due to repeated strain, like performing the same task daily without rest. Sudden overexertion injuries result from a single event, such as lifting a heavy object incorrectly or twisting unnaturally.
Certain factors increase the risk of overexertion injuries in Greenville, NC. Physically demanding jobs, such as construction or warehouse work, often require repetitive or heavy physical tasks. A lack of proper breaks can also prevent the body from recovering and increase the chances of injury. Pre-existing conditions, like back or joint problems, make certain people more susceptible to overexertion.
Overexertion injuries can result from any activity or condition that places excessive stress on the body, such as:
- Heavy lifting – Lifting objects that are too heavy or awkwardly shaped can strain muscles and joints. For instance, workers who repeatedly lift boxes in a warehouse without assistance can develop chronic back pain or sudden injuries if the loads are too heavy.
- Repetitive motions – Performing the same movements too often can lead to muscle fatigue and joint strain. This includes tasks like typing on a computer all day, frequently reaching overhead to stock shelves, or using tools that require constant hand movement.
- Awkward postures – Twisting, bending, or reaching in unnatural ways can overstretch muscles and tendons. Mechanics working under cars or employees repeatedly bending to pick up items can develop serious strain over time.
- Inadequate training – Without proper instruction on safe techniques, workers sometimes use inefficient or harmful work methods. For instance, lifting a heavy object with the back rather than the legs poses the risk of a severe spinal injury.
Seeking Compensation for Overexertion Injuries in Greenville
If you suffer an overexertion or heavy lifting injury in Greenville, you could be entitled to money from a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit. Workers’ compensation benefits apply to injuries that occur at work, no matter who is at fault. On the other hand, personal injury lawsuits require proving someone else’s negligence caused your injury.
When to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
In North Carolina, most employees injured on the job qualify for workers’ compensation. You must meet several basic requirements to file a workers’ comp claim:
- You need to show that your injury occurred while you were performing work-related duties. Overexertion injuries from lifting, repetitive motions, or other workplace tasks should meet this requirement.
- You must also report the injury to your employer immediately and no later than 30 days after the incident. Make your report orally and in writing. Failing to notify your employer on time could jeopardize your claim.
- After you report the injury, you must file a claim form (Form 18) with the North Carolina Industrial Commission.
The tricky part of filing a workers’ comp claim for overexertion is connecting it to your job. Your employer’s insurer will likely try to blame it on anything else. An experienced Greenville workers’ compensation attorney can help build a compelling case proving your overexertion injury is directly related to your work.
When to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
Some overexertion injuries come from non-work-related factors. If a third party or a defective piece of equipment caused your injury, you could file a personal injury lawsuit. In these cases, you must prove that the third party acted negligently or provided unsafe equipment. Unlike workers’ comp claims, personal injury lawsuits allow you to seek compensation for pain, suffering, and other losses.
Building Your Case for Compensation
Gathering strong evidence is the best way to support your claim for compensation. For instance, medical records can document the extent of your injury and the treatment you need. Witness statements and accident reports provide additional proof of what happened. Collecting and organizing this evidence increases your chances of a successful case outcome.
How Can a Greenville Overexertion Injury Lawyer Help You?
Handling workers’ compensation claims or personal injury lawsuits is challenging, especially when you’re in the middle of a painful recovery. An overexertion injury lawyer can handle the claims process and pursue fair compensation while you focus on healing. They can communicate with insurers to prevent them from undervaluing your claim. They can also gather the evidence necessary to support your case, such as medical records and witness statements. Allowing a lawyer to handle all of these details is the best way to maximize your compensation.
What to Look for in a Greenville Overexertion Injury Lawyer
Choosing the right lawyer is essential in an overexertion injury case. Look for an attorney with experience handling similar overexertion or workplace injury claims and a track record of success. Client reviews and testimonials can provide insight into their professionalism and results. A good lawyer should also communicate clearly and keep you informed throughout the process. Select an overworking injury attorney who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities.
The Legal Process for Overexertion Injury Claims
The legal process for an overexertion injury claim starts with an initial investigation. Your lawyer will review the facts of your case, gather evidence, and determine the ideal strategy. They can also file the necessary claim forms and negotiate with the insurance company as necessary. If negotiations do not lead to a fair settlement, your lawyer can take your case to court. At every step, they will work to protect your rights and demand a favorable outcome for your claim.
Contact an Experienced Injury Lawyer at Hardison & Cochran for a Free Consultation
Don’t let an overexertion injury hold you back from getting the help you need. Contact Hardison & Cochran today to learn about your legal options and how we can assist with your case. We have been serving injury victims for over 40 years now with our team of experienced personal injury lawyers and four North Carolina Board-Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Law. That service has led to securing millions in compensation for our deserving clients, including a $495,031 settlement for a nurse who was injured and needed back surgery after moving a patient.
Another client says, “Hardison & Cochran help[ed] me with a work-related injury. They walked me through every step. They were very caring and professional. I would recommend them to anyone who wants great representation.” Call us now or complete our online form for your free consultation with a Greenville overexertion injuries lawyer.