Most people think of an isolated incident when they imagine a workplace accident. A construction worker falls and suffers a head injury, or a warehouse worker breaks a wrist stumbling over a box. Another job-related injury occurs gradually and can impact a person’s ability to work. This is called a repetitive motion or repetitive stress injury (RSI).
Repetitive motion injuries are musculoskeletal disorders caused by performing the same action over and over. One of the most well-known types of repetitive stress injuries is carpal tunnel syndrome, a wrist condition common among office workers who spend their days typing. Bursitis and tendonitis are other examples of repetitive motion injuries.
Most Arizona employees are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for repetitive motion injuries. However, workers’ compensation insurers often dispute repetitive motion injury claims because the condition develops gradually. The insurance company may argue the injury is not work-related, and they are not obligated to pay.
If you need help filing a workers’ compensation claim for a repetitive motion injury in Arizona, an experienced attorney can help. Call or contact Matt Fendon Law Group for a free consultation with a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Workers’ Compensation for a Repetitive Motion Injury in Arizona
Repetitive motion injuries primarily impact employees who perform the same actions day after day, such as:
- Assembly line workers
- Warehouse workers
- Office employees
- Cashiers
- Painters
- Landscapers
- Truck and bus drivers
- Construction workers
Treatment for a repetitive motion injury could include compensation for treatments like surgery, physical therapy, pain medication, steroid injections, or devices to stabilize the injury, such as a brace or splint. Your doctor may also order you to perform light-duty activities or take frequent breaks while you heal. Workers’ compensation benefits can also replace lost income, making it a crucial financial lifeline for injured workers.
Navigating the Workers’ Compensation Process
Arizona law requires most businesses with one or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Here’s what you need to know about filing a workers’ compensation claim for a repetitive motion injury:
- Notify your employer immediately – Report your injury to your employer right away.
- See a doctor – Make an appointment with a doctor right away. Tell the physician the injury is work-related so it is documented on your medical record.
- Complete all required forms – You have one year to file paperwork for workers’ compensation benefits. You must complete one of two forms: the Worker’s Report of Injury or the Worker’s and Physician’s Report of Injury. The form should be sent to the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA).
- File a claim – The insurance company has 21 days to accept or deny your workers’ compensation claim. You have the opportunity to appeal if you disagree with the decision.
- Request for Hearing – You have 90 days from the date of a denial to appeal your claim. If you haven’t spoken with a workers’ compensation attorney yet, now is the time to do so.
Matt Fendon Law Group: Your Trusted Ally in Arizona
At Matt Fendon Law Group, we pride ourselves on serving as the rock for disabled workers in Arizona. Founding attorney Matt Fendon is a board-certified specialist in workers’ compensation law by the State Bar of Arizona. His proven and tested depth of experience allows our firm to deliver exceptional client service and results that make a difference in their lives.
It all starts with a free case review. Call or contact us now to speak with an Arizona workers’ compensation lawyer.
