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What injuries or diseases may be covered by workers’ comp?

On Behalf of | Apr 1, 2016 | Workers' Compensation

When a person in Virginia suffers an injury at work, they could find their whole world turned upside-down. They may have to take time off of work to recover physically, and they may find themselves in need of surgery or rehabilitation. When this happens, they may be concerned about supporting themselves and their families financially.,In situations like this, Virginians may want to consider filing for workers’ compensation benefits.

The first thing to determine is what types of injuries are covered by workers’ comp. In general, a worker either needs to suffer an “injury by accident,” or an “occupational disease.” For a situation to be deemed an accident, it must have taken place at work or at a function that is related to their employment. It also has to stem from a particular activity at work. Moreover, the injury must be sudden and must have happened at a specific time. Repetitive trauma injuries may not be covered.

In the case of occupational diseases, these too must be caused by working. Diseases contracted outside of work may not be covered. Also, diseases of the spine, neck or back may not be covered under the workers’ compensation system in Virginia.

Obviously being injured at work is a situation no one wants to find themselves in. However, if you have suffered an injury at work or an occupational disease that meets the necessary requirements, you may be able to pursue the benefits you need through the Virginia workers’ compensation system. To learn more about whether you are able to seek benefits, a Virginia workers’ compensation attorney may be a good source of advice and guidance, as this post cannot provide legal advice pertaining to any one person’s situation.