The Causes, Costs, and Symptoms of Overexertion in the Workplace
In the United States, serious work-related injuries and illnesses cost employers more than $1 billion a week. And, overexertion in the workplace is the leading cause of injury-related employer costs. When employers put their employees in danger, there are consequences. Any employee that has been overworked or put in jeopardy at work is entitled to workers’ compensation.
What are Overexertion Injuries?
Overexertion injuries can occur from falls, being struck by an object or equipment, slipping or tripping, and repetitive motions. Some additional overexertion examples of injuries include fatigue, hypoglycemia, and dehydration.
Dangers of Overexertion
Overexertion in the workplace can lead to severe health problems. If you’re overexerted to the point of fatigue, you’re at an increased risk of making mistakes, having accidents, or falling asleep while performing activities. Fatigue can also bring on depression, fast or irregular heartbeats, and dizziness. If your overexertion causes hypoglycemia, it can make you confused and even cause you to faint. Lastly, if your overexertion brings on dehydration, there can be further complications such as vomiting, joint pain, and kidney damage. These are all examples of why overexertion in the workplace should be taken very seriously.
Your employer is legally obligated to provide a safe working environment and keep you protected. Overexertion in the workplace increases the likelihood of mistakes, which puts you in danger. For example, imagine being so overworked that you fall asleep at the wheel while driving home. Or, perhaps you make a painful mistake operating a piece of heavy machinery at work.
What are the Costs and Consequences of Overexertion Injuries?
Injuries in the workplace can have long-standing consequences. Injuries can incur expensive medical bills, time off of work, emotional turmoil, and even permanent disabilities that change your standard of living.
If you have been injured on the job due to overexertion, you may be eligible to receive workers compensation. Check out more information about overexertion and workers’ compensation from TNT Legal to better understand what makes you eligible and when you should contact a lawyer.
Contact a Lawyer Before You Risk Your Compensation
After seeking medical attention, immediately contact a lawyer to discuss your case. Under no circumstances should you consult with your employer first, as this can decrease your chances of receiving the full compensation you’re entitled to receive. Your employer may try to downplay their responsibility or the seriousness of your injury. TNT offers a free case evaluation for all new clients. You can fill out this form or contact us at (561) 295-3670.
TNT Legal Can Help
TNT Legal is a workers’ compensation lawyer in West Palm Beach, Florida. You can check out our blog for more posts and details on workers’ compensation information. TNT Legal has two principal attorneys with more than 40 years of combined experience. The team has extensive experience handling workers’ compensation claims to ensure you get the benefits you rightly deserve. If you have been injured in the workplace, you may be eligible for compensation of medical bills, lost wages, and other categories such as emotional turmoil from the injury.