Our Los Angeles Herniated Disc Injury Lawyer Can Help You

A herniated disc injury, also known as a slipped disc or disc herniation, occurs when the soft discs between the vertebrae in the spine break or bulge out of their normal position. The spinal discs act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. A herniated disc can result in varying degrees of pain, discomfort, and neurological symptoms. Los Angeles herniated disc injury lawyer at PAG law firm can provide valuable assistance for individuals who have suffered from herniated disc injury.

When a disc herniates, the outer layer can weaken or tear, causing the inner parts to leak out or protrude. This can happen due to natural degeneration, wear and tear, or as a result of trauma or injury to the spine.

If you are suffering from a herniated disk injury caused because of a workplace incident, you can file for workers’ compensation.

What is Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, occurs when the outer layer of the spinal disc tears or ruptures, causing the soft inner portion to protrude. This condition can lead to irritation or compression of nearby nerves, resulting in various symptoms.

Symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. Here are some common symptoms associated with a herniated disc:

1. Arm or Leg Pain: A herniated disc can cause pain that radiates along the path of the affected nerve. In the case of a herniated lumbar disc (lower back), it often leads to sciatica, which is characterized by sharp or shooting pain that travels from the lower back through the buttocks and down one leg. In the case of a herniated cervical disc (neck), it can cause pain that radiates from the neck to the shoulder, arm, and even the hand and fingers.
2. Back or Neck Pain: The herniated disc itself can cause localized pain in the back or neck where the disc is located. This pain may be dull or sharp and can worsen with certain movements or positions.
3. Numbness or Tingling: Compression of nerves by the herniated disc can result in numbness or tingling sensations in the areas supplied by those nerves. For example, if the herniation is in the lumbar spine, it may cause numbness or tingling in the buttocks, thighs, calves, or feet. In the case of a cervical herniated disc, it can lead to numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, or hand.
4. Muscle Weakness: In some cases, a herniated disc can cause weakness in the muscles served by the affected nerves. This weakness may manifest as difficulty lifting or holding objects, as well as problems with coordination and balance.

It’s important to note that not all individuals with a herniated disc experience symptoms. Some people may have a herniated disc without any noticeable signs or pain. If symptoms do occur, they can vary in intensity and duration. If you suspect you have a herniated disc or experience persistent back or neck pain with associated symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Causes of Herniated Disc Injury At Workplace

Herniated disc injuries can occur in the workplace due to various factors. Here are some common causes of herniated disc injuries at the workplace:

• Heavy Lifting: Jobs that involve frequent lifting of heavy objects, such as construction, warehouse work, or manual labor, can put significant strain on the spine. Improper lifting techniques, overexertion, or lifting objects that are too heavy can lead to herniated discs.
• Repetitive Movements: Certain occupations require repetitive motions, such as bending, twisting, or turning, which can place stress on the spinal discs over time. Examples include jobs that involve repetitive bending in nursing or warehouse work, or repetitive twisting motions in certain sports or manufacturing tasks.
• Improper Ergonomics: Poor ergonomics in the workplace can contribute to the development of herniated discs. This includes factors such as incorrect workstation setup, inadequate back support in chairs, prolonged sitting or standing in improper posture, and lack of ergonomic equipment.
• Vibration and Jarring Movements: Workers operating heavy machinery or equipment that produces vibrations, such as jackhammers or forklifts, are at risk of developing herniated discs. The continuous vibrations can accelerate wear and tear on the spinal discs and increase the likelihood of injury.
• Falls and Accidents: Slip and fall accidents or workplace accidents involving trauma to the back, such as falls from heights, vehicle collisions, or being struck by objects, can lead to herniated discs. The impact and force exerted on the spine during such accidents can cause disc herniation.

What is the Compensation for a Herniated Disc Injury

The compensation for a herniated disc in Los Angeles, as with any workplace injury, is typically covered under the workers’ compensation system. The specific amount of compensation will depend on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the impact on the individual’s ability to work, and the jurisdiction’s workers’ compensation laws. Here are some forms of compensation that may be available:

• Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation generally covers the reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of the herniated disc. This can include doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, medication, assistive devices, and ongoing medical care.
• Temporary Disability Benefits: If the herniated disc injury causes the worker to be temporarily unable to work or work at full capacity, temporary disability benefits may be provided. These benefits typically compensate for a portion of the lost wages during the recovery period until the worker can return to work.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: If the herniated disc results in a permanent impairment or disability that affects the worker’s ability to perform their job or any other type of work, permanent disability benefits may be awarded. The extent of the disability, as determined by medical evaluations, will determine the amount and duration of these benefits.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: In cases where the herniated disc injury prevents the worker from returning to their previous job, vocational rehabilitation services may be offered. These services can include job retraining, career counseling, and assistance in finding suitable employment that accommodates the worker’s limitations.
• Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits: In certain cases, if the worker’s employer does not offer suitable alternative employment after a permanent disability, supplemental job displacement benefits may be available. These benefits help cover the costs of skill enhancement or retraining for a new occupation.

It’s important to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to understand the specific compensation available for a herniated disc injury in Los Angeles. They can provide guidance on the applicable laws, help navigate the claims process, and advocate for the injured worker’s rights to ensure they receive the appropriate compensation based on their unique circumstances.

Liability for Herniated Disc Injury at the Workplace

Liability for a herniated disc injury at the workplace depends on several factors, including the circumstances surrounding the injury and the applicable laws. Here are some key considerations regarding liability:

• Employer Responsibility: Generally, employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe work environment for their employees. They are responsible for implementing safety measures, providing proper training, maintaining equipment, and addressing potential hazards. If an employer fails to fulfill these responsibilities and their negligence or violation of safety regulations directly contributes to the worker’s herniated disc injury, there may be a basis for a personal injury claim against the employer.
• Third-Party Liability: In some cases, a herniated disc injury at the workplace may be caused by the actions or negligence of a third party. For example, if the injury was the result of defective equipment or the actions of a contractor, subcontractor, or another company working on the same premises, the injured worker may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against that third party.
• Comparative Negligence: It’s important to consider the possibility of shared fault or comparative negligence. If the injured worker’s own actions or failure to follow safety protocols contributed to the herniated disc injury, the compensation amount may be reduced based on the degree of their fault. However, workers’ compensation benefits are generally not affected by the worker’s negligence.

How Can Pacific Attorney Group’s  Los Angeles Herniated Disc Injury Lawyer Help With Herniated Disc Injury?

Pacific Attorney Group can provide valuable assistance for individuals who have suffered a herniated disc injury at the workplace. Here’s how we can help:

• Legal Guidance: The attorneys at Pacific Attorney Group have extensive knowledge of workers’ compensation laws and regulations. They can provide expert legal guidance to help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation.
• Case Evaluation: Our attorneys will evaluate the details of your herniated disc injury case, including the cause of the injury, the extent of the damage, and the impact on your ability to work. This evaluation will help determine the strength of your claim and the potential benefits you may be entitled to.
• Gathering Evidence: To build a strong case, the attorneys will gather relevant evidence to support your claim. This may include medical records, diagnostic reports, witness statements, and documentation of the workplace conditions that contributed to your herniated disc injury.
• Negotiations: Our attorneys will engage in negotiations with the workers’ compensation insurance company on your behalf. Their goal is to ensure you receive fair and adequate compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and any other applicable benefits.
• Advocacy and Representation: If your case needs to proceed to a workers’ compensation hearing or trial, the attorneys at Pacific Attorney Group will provide strong advocacy and representation. They will present your case, argue for your rights, and fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve for your herniated disc injury.
• Appeals and Legal Support: In the event of a denied claim or any issues with the workers’ compensation process, the attorneys can assist with appeals, administrative hearings, and any legal challenges that may arise. They will support you throughout the entire legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.

Pacific Attorney Group – Los Angeles herniated disc injury lawyer understands the challenges faced by individuals with herniated disc injuries and strives to provide personalized, compassionate, and skilled legal representation. We aim to help you navigate the complex workers’ compensation system, advocate for your rights, and work towards securing the rightful benefits and compensation for your workplace injury.