14 July 2021
 Categories: , Blog

Workplaces are becoming increasingly more automated as companies look for ways to improve efficiency and lower costs. However, the interactions between the workers and the robots can often be dangerous and some workers have even suffered injuries as a result of their interactions with the robots. However, under workers' compensation law, you should be entitled to compensation if you are injured.

How Injuries Occur

Injuries often occur toward the end of a shift. This is likely because workers have more energy at the start of a shift and are more likely to make mistakes toward the end. The robots continue to operate at the same pace and may injure workers as a result. 

For example, workers might trip over a robot or might have their limbs caught in a machine while working at a warehouse. Even if you were at fault for the accident, you'll be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

What to Do After an Injury

If you are injured by a robot, you should tell your employer as soon as possible. Your employer will need to file a report to their workers' compensation insurance provider. After this occurs, you will then want to receive medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Even if you believe you are not very injured, your injuries might be worse than you think.

The workers' compensation insurance provider will do everything they can to reduce the benefits they will pay to you. Therefore, if you do not receive medical treatment early enough, the workers' compensation insurance provider may use this as evidence that you were not as injured as you claim. 

Speak with a Workers' Compensation Attorney

While you may be able to handle your workers' compensation claim on your own, it's easier to involve an attorney as soon as possible. A workers' compensation attorney will allow you to come into the office for a free consultation. You'll especially need help if:

• Your employer denies that your injuries occurred at work
• Your employer penalizes you
• Your disability is likely to be permanent
• You are considering filing for SSDI benefits
• Your settlement offer isn't large enough

If any of this is true, your workers' compensation attorney will help you take the steps necessary to maximize the chances that you will receive compensation for your injuries. They will help you avoid mistakes that would lead to your claim being denied and will assist you in appealing the denial of your claim so you can receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact a local workers' compensation lawyer to learn more.