If you have sustained a back injury at work, you are not alone. Back injuries are one of the most common reasons South Carolina employees file for workers’ compensation. Whether caused by lifting, slipping, overexertion, or even job-related vehicle accidents, a back injury at work can seriously disrupt your life and ability to earn a living. To ensure you receive the proper benefits, consult a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible for guidance.
Williams & Roche, LLC was founded by two attorneys who previously served on the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. We understand the system from the inside out and fight to get injured workers the support they deserve.
We proudly serve clients in Columbia and throughout the state. If you suffered a hurt back at work, let our Columbia workers’ compensation lawyers help you understand your options.
Common Causes of Back Injuries in the Workplace
Back injuries happen in all kinds of ways. While some result from a single accident, others develop over time due to repeated movements or ongoing strain. The most common causes include:
Heavy Lifting Without Proper Technique or Equipment
Workers often strain their lower backs when lifting, carrying, or moving items, especially if they have not received proper training on how to lift safely. Without adequate technique or mechanical assistance, even a single heavy lift can cause a lasting injury.
Repetitive Motions and Strain
If your job requires repeated bending, twisting, or reaching, the small stresses on your body can accumulate. Over time, this repetitive strain can cause chronic back problems that force you to take time off work or change jobs altogether.
Slips and Falls
When a worker slips on a wet surface or uneven flooring, they may injure their back either by twisting suddenly or falling onto a hard surface. These accidents can cause everything from pulled muscles to spinal injuries.
Car Accidents and Work-Related Collisions
If your job involves driving or being around heavy equipment, back injuries can result from crashes or sudden impacts. A rear-end collision, for example, might lead to whiplash, spinal disc injuries, or strained muscles in your back. These injuries often require physical therapy or even surgery.
Falling Objects
Whether it is warehouse inventory or equipment on a shelf, falling items can strike a worker or cause them to twist or fall while trying to avoid being hit. The result can be serious, particularly if the object is heavy or dropped from a height.
Overexertion
If you work in an environment where you are expected to move quickly or carry more than you should, you might overexert yourself and suffer a back injury. Such injuries are common in roles that involve repetitive lifting or long shifts without adequate breaks.
What To Do If You Hurt Your Back at Work
If you injure your back on the job in South Carolina, it is essential to act quickly. You must notify your employer within 90 days of the injury or the date you realized it was work-related. Delaying this step could limit your eligibility for benefits.
Next, you will need to file a claim seeking benefits. In most cases, the law gives you two years to file, but calculating that deadline can be tricky, depending on your situation.
Why Legal Representation Makes a Difference
Trying to manage a back injury while handling your legal case can be overwhelming. You may be in pain, missing work, and unsure of what your rights are. Having our Columbia workers’ compensation lawyer by your side can make the process easier and improve your chances of getting full benefits.
Our attorneys take the time to understand your injury and how it affects your life. Then, we use our clear understanding of the law and our experience from inside the Workers’ Compensation Commission to build a strong claim on your behalf. We handle the paperwork and negotiations, allowing you to focus on improving physically.
Back Injuries at Work Can Be Serious – Let Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Help You Move Forward
If you are suffering from back injuries at work, you may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits, including coverage for your medical care and lost wages. These benefits are designed to help you recover without falling behind financially.
At Williams & Roche, LLC, we represent injured workers throughout South Carolina with experience and insight into the challenges of the claim process. Whether you are dealing with a herniated disc, muscle strain, or long-term back pain, we are here to fight for what you are owed.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Wondering what to do if you hurt your back at work? Do not wait. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can start receiving the benefits you need. Speak with the Columbia workers’ compensation attorneys at Williams & Roche, LLC, today. Contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
