Many workers are familiar with workers’ compensation claims when injured on the job, but fewer realize that compensation is also available for occupational illnesses. Thousands of workers in the United States suffer from occupational diseases each year, with long-term health impacts from exposure to hazardous conditions at work. In Cherry Hill, if you are diagnosed with an occupational illness, you may be entitled to benefits that address your medical costs, lost wages, and more.
A Cherry Hill occupational disease lawyer from Matarazzo & Lubcher can offer the legal support needed to build a strong case. Whether you are unsure if you qualify for workers’ compensation or are facing challenges with your claim, we can guide you through the process. Reach out today to explore your options and protect your rights.
Types of Occupational Diseases
Occupational diseases involve employees sustaining injuries when exposed to harmful substances or conditions in the workplace over a prolonged period. These diseases may range from respiratory illnesses due to inhaling toxic chemicals to skin disorders from frequent contact with irritants. Common types of occupational diseases include:
- Respiratory diseases. Conditions like asbestosis, silicosis, and chronic bronchitis can result from inhaling dangerous dust or fumes. It is estimated that over 10% of all lung diseases are attributed to workplace exposures.
- Skin conditions. Dermatitis and other skin diseases are often caused by repeated contact with chemicals or hazardous materials.
- Repetitive strain injuries. You can end up with issues like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis from doing the same motions over and over again.
- Hearing loss. Extended exposure to high noise levels in industries like construction or manufacturing may lead to permanent hearing loss.
- Cancer. Exposure to carcinogens may be the cause of a portion of the development of cancers witnessed in the world. According to the CDC, 2 to 8% of all cancers globally are attributed to exposure to carcinogens in the workplace.
Each of these conditions can severely impact a worker’s quality of life and ability to continue working. You need to understand the type of illness and its link to workplace exposure to help in building a winning workers’ compensation claim.
Can You Pursue a Workers’ Compensation Claim for an Occupational Illness?
You can pursue a workers’ compensation claim for an occupational illness, just as you would for a workplace injury. The key difference is that occupational diseases often develop gradually rather than from a single incident. Because of this, proving that your illness is work-related can be more complicated.
Make sure to enlist the help of our law firm to help demonstrate a clear link between your illness and your job duties or working environment. A Cherry Hill occupational disease lawyer can assist you in gathering key evidence to establish this connection.
Workers’ compensation benefits for occupational illnesses are designed to cover several areas, including:
- All necessary medical care should be covered, including hospital visits, medications, and ongoing therapy.
- You are unable to work due to your illness, typically a portion of your regular income.
- Permanent impairment based on the extent of your disability.
- Death benefits where an occupational disease results in death.
A Cherry Hill Occupational Disease Lawyer Can Help
Sometimes, handling workers’ compensation claims related to occupational disease can be overwhelming. However, having a Cherry Hill occupational disease attorney on your side can help enhance the chances of a positive outcome. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an occupational illness, let the workers’ compensation lawyers at Matarazzo & Lubcher help you seek the compensation you deserve. We will use our resources to investigate your case and gather the necessary evidence to prove it. Contact us today to discuss your case.
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