If you have suffered a slipped disc, bulging disc, or ruptured disc because of work-related activities, then you may have a workers compensation claim through WorkCover.
Bulging disc injuries can be debilitating, particularly if they develop into painful sciatica. Because of your injury, you may be experiencing financial stress from taking time off work, or from mounting medical bills - and you may be wondering if you are entitled to any benefits.
Am I eligible for workers compensation following a slipped disc injury?
Back injuries that occur at work and involve a slipped disc or bulging disc can be very serious. If your day-to-day activities are affected by your injury, or your ability to return to your pre-injury work is affected, you are likely to be eligible for a WorkCover claim.
We highly recommend seeking legal assistance as soon as possible following your slipped disc or bulging disc injury so that your ability to make a claim is not lost due to a missed time limit.
What can my slipped disc injury claim recover compensation for?
Your slipped disc injury claim through WorkCover typically covers all of your physical and any consequential psychological injuries and losses, including past and future costs or expenses related to your injury.
Compensation can include payments for things such as:
- Loss of earnings;
- Medical, rehabilitation and hospital expenses;
- Travel expenses;
- Home help and nursing provided by anyone, paid or unpaid, if it meets certain conditions; and,
- Return to work services.
Other forms of compensation may be available:
- Impairment benefit claim - If your workplace accident has left you with a permanent impairment or illness, you may be entitled to an additional lump sum payment.
- Common law damages - Common law damages are available where your accident was caused by your employer or a colleague, and your injuries meet the legal definition of 'serious'. Damages are awarded in a lump sum to cover pain, suffering and financial loss.
One of Shine's expert lawyers will be able to assess your circumstances and let you know which benefits you're entitled to claim.
How to make a Workers Compensation claim
If you’re wanting more information on the workers compensation claims process, the video below outlines how you can access compensation following a slipped disc or bulging disc injury.
Do I need a lawyer for a bulging disc injury claim?
It is possible to legally represent yourself when making a compensation claim. However doing so successfully likely requires a thorough understanding of the law, your legal rights and entitlements, and a commitment to actively pursue the case to move it forward. Most people making slipped disc compensation legal claims choose not to act for themselves and instead engage an expert compensation lawyer.
Without an experienced workers compensation lawyer on your side, it can be difficult to identify the merits of your case and you may not receive the compensation you're entitled to.
Shine Lawyers are no win no fee workers compensation experts
Shine Lawyers are experts in Back Injury Compensation Claims and Neck Injury Compensation Claims and can advise you of your legal options as well as starting a compensation claim on your behalf. We can help you to understand your rights and access the compensation you’re entitled to on a No Win, No Fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket legal expenses. Contact us for an obligation-free consultation today.
Superannuation and Disability Insurance
If you are unable to work due to illness or injury you might be entitled to benefits through your superannuation or other insurance policies. We recommend speaking to one of our experts for a quick, obligation-free analysis of your situation to determine your rights and ability to make a claim. Learn more about Superannuation and Disability Insurance Claims