For many Modesto residents, recovering from a workplace injury can be a challenging process. Depending on the severity of your injuries, as well as your access to healthcare, paid time off, rehabilitation facilities and medication, recovery can take a few weeks or even several years. However, because workers simply have less free time, they are more hesitant to take time off, even after injury, according to a study published by the American Journal of Public Health.
In this study, research shows that recovering from and coping with workplace injuries has become more difficult than ever because of the time squeeze and financial restrictions on households in the United States. Particularly for single parents, worker's comp is often not enough to pay the bills. The study reports that worker's comp benefits only replace 32% to 41% of pretax losses during a 10-year observation period. During that time, worker's comp payments also ceased for many who used to be eligible. Given this, and the fact that the average injured working is only 37 years old, lifetime losses can be quite considerable.
The Effects on the Family
For people with minor injuries, one might think that a worker's comp claim might allow them to spend more time with their families. However, the research indicates that even when injuries are not life threatening, the time spent at home by the injured party is not productive. It can cause stress on relationships, reduce the ability to complete daily chores and place an extra burden on other members of the household.
The good news is, you don't have to go it alone. When you or someone in your family has been injured at work, you have to fight to get the money you need. You didn't choose to get hurt and you've got to know your rights. A personal injury lawyer can review your case to make sure you're getting all that you deserve. It's not about trying to milk your employer or get something for free - it's about providing the means to take care of yourself and your family when you've suffered unjustly.
