Broken bones are among the most common – and potentially serious – injuries that workers can suffer on the job. In Virginia, workers in industries including construction, manufacturing and transportation are particularly at risk for broken bones because their occupations require varying degrees of manual labor. However, even employees in less hazardous environments can experience broken bones from falls, equipment accidents and a host of other circumstances.
When a worker suffers a broken bone, that condition can potentially lead to long-term complications. Although many people dismiss broken bones as relatively run-of-the-mill injuries, severe broken bones can come with very serious challenges.
When broken bones require significant care and attention
A broken bone, or fracture, can vary in severity from a simple break to a more complex, compound fracture that requires surgery. Some fractures heal relatively quickly with proper treatment, while others can lead to long-term disabilities and/or chronic pain.
The severity of an injury often depends on factors such as the location of the fracture, the affected worker’s age and their overall health. For example, a broken leg or arm can temporarily limit a worker’s ability to perform their job duties, while a more severe injury, such as a spinal fracture or broken hip, may result in permanent disability.
In Virginia, workers who suffer broken bones on the job are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Virginia workers’ compensation law provides temporary total disability benefits for workers who are unable to perform their job while recovering.
With that said, securing these benefits is not always a straightforward undertaking. Seeking legal guidance before filing for benefits, therefore, is often wise.
