When it comes to workplace injuries, neck and back injuries are among the most common—and most debilitating—conditions employees face. These injuries can arise from accidents, repetitive strain, or even the physical demands of your job, leaving you in pain and unable to work. Navigating the workers’ compensation system to secure the benefits you deserve can be overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on recovery. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we are here to help. With decades of experience advocating for injured workers in New York, we know how to fight for your rights and maximize your compensation. If you’ve suffered a neck or back injury at work, contact us today for a free consultation to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the support you deserve.
Neck and Back Injuries in the Workplace
Neck and back injuries are among the most common workplace injuries across numerous industries in New York. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we regularly help workers who have suffered these potentially debilitating injuries secure the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve.
Common Industries for Neck and Back Injuries
Construction
Construction workers frequently experience neck and back injuries due to:
- Heavy lifting and material handling
- Falls from heights
- Operating vibrating equipment
- Awkward working positions
- Repetitive bending and twisting
- Scaffold accidents
Healthcare
Healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and nursing assistants, risk injury through:
- Patient lifting and transfers
- Long hours of standing
- Sudden movements when catching falling patients
- Repetitive bending over patients
- Moving heavy medical equipment
Transportation and Delivery
Drivers and delivery workers face unique risks including:
- Loading and unloading heavy items
- Extended periods of sitting
- Vehicle accidents and sudden impacts
- Repetitive lifting of packages
Manufacturing and Warehousing
Workers in these industries often suffer injuries from:
- Repetitive assembly line movements
- Heavy lifting without proper equipment
- Operating forklifts and machinery
- Extended periods in fixed positions
- Improper lifting techniques
- Slip and fall accidents
Office Settings
Even office workers are vulnerable to neck and back injuries through:
- Poor ergonomic setup
- Extended computer use
- Prolonged sitting
- Improper lifting of office supplies
- Slip and falls
- Reaching for items improperly
How These Injuries Occur
Neck and back injuries in the workplace typically result from:
Sudden Trauma
- Falls from heights or on same level
- Being struck by objects
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Equipment malfunctions
- Lifting accidents
- Slips and trips
Repetitive Stress
- Repeated lifting or carrying
- Constant bending or twisting
- Prolonged awkward positions
- Ongoing vibration exposure
- Continuous overhead work
- Regular pushing or pulling motions
- Overexertion
- Lifting items too heavy
- Working without proper breaks
- Maintaining difficult positions
- Forceful movements
- Extended physical labor
- Insufficient rest periods
Understanding how these injuries occur is crucial for both prevention and establishing your workers’ compensation claim. If you’ve suffered a neck or back injury at work, documentation of how the injury occurred and seeking immediate medical attention are essential steps in protecting your right to benefits.
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we understand the complex nature of workplace neck and back injuries and how they impact your ability to work and enjoy life. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can help ensure you receive the medical care and compensation you deserve.
Can You Get Workers’ Comp for Neck and Back Injuries?
In New York State, neck and back injuries are covered under workers’ compensation when they occur during the course of your employment. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we regularly help workers secure benefits for various types of neck and back injuries, from acute traumatic injuries to conditions that develop over time.
What Types of Neck and Back Injuries Qualify?
Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of neck and back conditions including:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal cord injuries
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Pinched nerves
- Fractured vertebrae
- Whiplash
- Cervical spondylosis
- Lumbar spine injuries
- Thoracic spine damage
- Chronic pain conditions
Available Benefits for Neck and Back Injuries
When your claim is approved, you may receive:
- Medical treatment coverage for all necessary care
- Weekly wage replacement benefits while unable to work
- Permanent disability benefits for lasting impairments
- Vocational rehabilitation if you cannot return to your previous job
- Schedule loss of use awards for permanent injuries
Proving Your Neck or Back Injury Claim
To successfully claim workers’ compensation benefits, you need to:
- Report your injury to your employer promptly (within 30 days)
- Seek medical treatment immediately
- Document how and when the injury occurred
- Follow all prescribed medical treatment
- Keep records of all medical visits and treatments
- File your claim within the legal time limits
Special Considerations for Neck and Back Claims
These types of claims often require special attention because:
- Symptoms may develop gradually over time
- Pre-existing conditions can complicate claims
- Insurance companies often dispute severity
- Long-term implications may be unclear initially
- Treatment needs can change over time
When to Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
You should consider legal representation if:
- Your claim is denied
- Your benefits are terminated prematurely
- You’re being pressured to return to work too soon
- You’re offered an inadequate settlement
- Your injury may result in permanent disability
- You have a pre-existing neck or back condition
- Your employer disputes how the injury occurred
What is the Average Settlement for Neck or Back Work Injuries?
When it comes to workers’ compensation claims for neck and back injuries, one of the most common questions is: “What can I expect in terms of a settlement?” While there is no fixed amount for these types of injuries, settlements can range widely depending on the severity of the injury, its impact on your ability to work, and other key factors. Below, we break down the elements that affect the value of your settlement and what you should consider when pursuing your claim.
Several variables influence the average settlement for neck or back injuries. These include:
Severity of the Injury
Minor sprains or strains typically result in smaller settlements compared to serious injuries like herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord damage. The more severe and long-lasting the injury, the higher the settlement is likely to be.
Medical Treatment and Costs
The cost of your medical care, including surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and follow-up appointments, will play a significant role in determining the settlement. Cases involving ongoing or future medical treatment generally result in larger settlements.
Impact on Your Ability to Work
If your injury temporarily or permanently limits your ability to perform your job, it can increase the settlement amount. Lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and the need for vocational retraining are all taken into account.
Permanent Disability Ratings
Workers who sustain long-term or permanent disabilities often receive higher settlements. A disability rating, determined by a doctor, will significantly affect the compensation you’re entitled to.
Pain and Suffering
While workers’ compensation typically doesn’t cover pain and suffering, in some cases—such as when a third party is liable—this factor can influence the settlement amount.
Average Settlement Range for Neck and Back Injuries
Although settlements vary, average amounts for work-related neck or back injuries often fall between $20,000 and $75,000. Severe cases involving permanent disability or significant medical costs can result in settlements exceeding $100,000. Keep in mind that every case is unique, and the final settlement amount will depend on the specific circumstances of your injury.
How a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help
The workers’ compensation process can be complicated, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
If you’ve suffered a neck or back injury on the job, don’t leave your settlement to chance. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we have the experience and expertise to fight for the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Discuss Your Neck or Back Injury Case With Us Today
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we are dedicated to protecting injured workers and ensuring they receive the full benefits they deserve. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or long-term disability, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait to get the help you need—contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights and your future.