Rhode Island Workers Compensation Attorney

What Qualifies as a Work Injury in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, a work injury is typically classified as any physical or mental harm occurring as a result of work-related duties or activities. This includes accidents, illnesses, and injuries sustained while on the job, including repetitive stress injuries or occupational illnesses. These injuries usually result from the tasks or conditions of the employee's role to qualify for a workers' compensation claim.

Among the most common work injuries suffered by workers' compensation claimants, we find:

• Slip and Fall Injuries: These commonly occur due to wet floors, loose carpets, or cluttered walkways. They can lead to various injuries, including sprains, fractures, concussions, and even more severe conditions like spinal cord damage.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): These are injuries developed over time due to repetitive motion, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. RSIs often affect workers who perform the same action repetitively in their jobs.
• Vehicle Accidents: Employees who drive for work-related duties often suffer injuries from vehicle accidents, which can range from minor bruises to serious injuries like broken bones or traumatic brain injuries.
• Machinery Accidents: These occur when a worker is injured by a machine at the workplace, often leading to severe injuries.
• Overexertion Injuries: These injuries occur when a worker strains themselves by lifting, pulling, pushing, or carrying heavy objects.
• Fall from Height Injuries: These injuries occur when a worker falls from a ladder, roof, scaffold, or any elevated work area.
• Chemical Exposure: Workers in certain industries might suffer injuries or illnesses due to exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Workplace Violence: Injuries can also result from acts of violence or harassment in the workplace.

What Are the Different Types of Workers' Compensation Benefits Available?

If you've been injured or disabled while at work in Rhode Island, you have access to a comprehensive array of workers' compensation benefits designed to support you during your recovery and beyond. These benefits are calculated using state-established formulas and encompass various categories:

• Medical Benefits: Once awarded, full medical benefits come with no time or monetary limitations. This includes coverage for specific medical procedures and services provided by medical professionals, such as surgeons, physicians, registered nurses, and more. Additionally, medical benefits can cover costs for anesthesia, pathology, chiropractic services, and radiology, among others.
• Rehabilitation Benefits: Rhode Island workers' comp provides rehabilitation services aimed at restoring you as close as possible to your pre-injury status. These services encompass medical, vocational, re-employment, and spiritual treatments. Medical restorative services range from surgery, hospital nursing care, and physical therapy to psychological services, orthotics, and prosthesis.
• Disability Benefits: If you're unable to return to your job due to a medical finding, disability benefits are available. "Total disability" indicates an inability to earn a living, while "partial disability" means you can't resume your previous work or earn an equal amount due to the injury. Disability benefits include Temporary Total Disability (TTD) for continuous capped payments, Permanent Total Disability (PTD) with capped payments, and Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) that can continue for up to 312 weeks.
• Disfigurement Benefits: Permanent bodily disfigurement is covered by Rhode Island workers' compensation, with benefits calculated based on your pre-injury salary and payable for up to 500 weeks.
• Death Benefits: In case of a workplace-related death, surviving dependents may receive death benefits. The amount is determined by the deceased worker's salary and a cost-of-living allowance (COLA). The surviving spouse receives the benefit, and if dependent children are present, an additional amount per child is added. However, if the spouse remarries without dependent children, the benefit ceases.

Please note that these benefits may be subject to changes in Rhode Island workers' compensation law. For personalized advice and assistance in navigating these benefits, consult a knowledgeable Providence workers' compensation attorney.

Our legal team is here to help you understand your rights and secure the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation.

What Do Workers' Comp Attorneys Do?

A workers' compensation attorney's job is to be by your side through the duration of your claim process. They will help you file the claim as well as help you fight for fair compensation for your necessary leave of absence from work. Additionally, if you were injured on the job, a Rhode Island workers' compensation lawyer can help you receive compensation for the medical care you need.