Teaching is a rewarding profession, but one that carries a high risk of serious injury. Repetitive tasks can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome and joint disorders, exposure to toxic fumes and environmental toxins can lead to serious respiratory and health issues, and school violence and high levels of stress can take a toll on a teacher’s emotional and physical health.
Workers’ compensation benefits can provide much needed compensation and medical coverage when teachers are injured. In many cases, workers’ compensation benefits are initially denied. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can appeal the denial of benefits and help the teacher claim the maximum amount of benefits available.
Common Risks of Injury for Teachers
There are many health and safety risks associated with a career in teaching. The most common risks include:
- Unsanitary working conditions, including classrooms with excessive dirt and dust
- Toxic mold from moisture damage and buildings in disrepair
- Exposure to vermin, pests, and insects
- Fumes and foul odors
- Repetitive task injuries
- Slip and falls
- Heavy lifting
- Standing for prolonged periods of time each day
- Bodily injury resulting from school violence
- Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, such as hepatitis and AIDS
- Exposure to body fluids
- Poor lighting and prolonged exposure to technology, including computers, tablets, and Smartboards
- Extreme job-related stress
While some risks can be minimized through limited exposure, other risks are hard to avoid.
Common Injuries and Illnesses for Teachers
Teaching styles and methods may vary, but certain types of injuries are common among teachers, which include:
- Headaches and migraines
- Blurry vision
- Stomach cramps and gastrointestinal disorders
- Ear, nose, and throat infections
- Depression and anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Skin rashes and parasitic infections
- Joint and nerve disorders
- Back injuries
- Shoulder and neck injuries
- Leg, feet, and ankle injuries
- Blood clots
- Respiratory illnesses and infections
- Broken bones and head injuries suffered in slip and falls
- Hepatitis
- Cancer
- Loss of memory and mental focus
These types of injuries can require long recovery periods for educators. Workers’ compensation benefits offer injured teachers much needed compensation to cover lost wages, medical bills, and prescription medications.
How Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help an Injured Teacher?
When teachers suffer a work-related injury or illness that results in temporary or permanent disability, it is imperative to seek the counsel of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer who can ensure that teachers meet strict filing deadlines, gather pertinent medical records, and secure vital evidence to support their claim. A lawyer will also be able to guide the teacher through the appeals process if benefits are initially denied.
Workers’ compensation benefits provide critical compensation for teachers who are out of work or accumulate high medical bills related to their illness or injury. A denial of benefits is common, but a successful appeal can ensure teachers claim the maximum amount of compensation available.
Cherry Hill Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Pietras Saracino Smith & Meeks, LLP Help Injured Teachers Claim Workers’ Compensation Benefits
If you suffered a workplace injury or illness, contact the Cherry Hill workers’ compensation lawyers at Pietras Saracino Smith & Meeks, LLP today. Call us at 856-761-3773 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout Camden, Cinnaminson, Delran, Maple Shade, and Pennsauken.
