The signs your workplace injury may cost more than you realise

Many people who’ve been injured at work underestimate how much an injury might cost. As such, you may be entitled to compensation for not just medical bills, but lost productivity, future earnings, and retraining. Here are some signs that your situation may warrant a closer look.

You needed surgery or specialist treatment

If your workplace injury required surgery, or ongoing treatment from a specialist such as an orthopaedic surgeon, neurologist or pain specialist, that’s a strong indicator that your injury is more serious than a straightforward sprain or strain. Serious injuries generally attract more significant compensation, including coverage of ongoing medical costs and, in some cases, a lump sum payment for permanent impairment.

You haven’t been able to return to your usual work

If your injury has changed what you can do at work, whether that means reduced hours, lighter duties, or an inability to return to your pre-injury role altogether, that loss of earning capacity is something that workers compensation is specifically designed to address. It’s not just about the time you’ve already lost. It’s about the impact your injury has on your future capacity to earn.

Your injury has affected your life outside of work

Compensation isn’t only about what happens at the workplace. If your injury is affecting your ability to perform everyday tasks at home, care for your family, exercise, or simply live your life the way you did before, those impacts matter and in some cases can form part of your claim.

You feel like you were pushed to return too soon

Pressure to return to work before you’re medically ready is unfortunately not uncommon. If you’ve been pushed back onto the job while still in pain or without medical clearance, and your condition has worsened as a result, that is something worth discussing with a lawyer.

You’re not sure what you’ve already agreed to

If you’ve received any offer of settlement or been asked to sign documents in relation to your injury, please get legal advice before signing anything. Once a settlement is accepted, it can be very difficult to revisit.

If any of this sounds familiar, contact the team at Maliganis Edwards Johnson for a confidential, obligation-free conversation. You may be entitled to more than you think.