Legal Options Available for Employees Who Suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Updated on May 20, 2024

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If you’re an employee who suffers from carpal tunnel syndrome, you know how debilitating and frustrating it can be. This repetitive strain injury is caused by repeatedly performing the same hand or wrist movements, for example, when using a keyboard or mouse. While prevention measures can help alleviate symptoms, some employees may still develop this condition due to job requirements. 

In such cases, it’s essential to know your legal options in case you need to seek compensation from your employer. This article will explore the legal avenues available for employees suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and how a local workplace injury lawyer can help.

Let’s take a closer look at the legal options available for employees with carpal tunnel syndrome:

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA forbids treating individuals with disabilities unfairly based on disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment. This means that if you have carpal tunnel syndrome, your employer cannot discriminate against you or take adverse actions such as firing or demoting you because of your condition.

In addition to protecting employers from discrimination, the ADA requires them to provide reasonable accommodations for disabled employees unless it would be unreasonable for them to do so. 

These accommodations can include ergonomic workstations, modified job duties, or assistive devices for tasks that aggravate carpal tunnel syndrome. Employees with carpal tunnel syndrome may also be eligible for intermittent leave under the ADA, which allows them to take time off work when they are experiencing flare-ups or need medical treatment.

Workers’ Compensation

If your job caused carpal tunnel syndrome, you can also be qualified for workers’ compensation benefits. State-mandated workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits to injured or ill workers. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation.

To be eligible for these benefits, you have to submit a workers’ compensation claim to your employer’s insurance provider. It’s important to note that the process for filing a claim could vary depending on your state’s laws and regulations. It’s best to consult a workplace injury lawyer who will guide you through the process and make sure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. 

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Third-Party Lawsuits

In some cases, an employee may develop carpal tunnel syndrome due to workplace conditions or circumstances that involve a third party. For example, if your job involves using defective products from a manufacturer, you may have grounds for a third-party lawsuit. 

Similarly, if your employer did not follow safety regulations or provide adequate training that led to your carpal tunnel syndrome, you may also have a case against them. A workplace accident lawyer can assist you in navigating the complex legal system and pursuing damages from the responsible party in these situations.

Get it Right!

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a severe condition that can significantly impact an employee’s life and ability to work. However, employees who suffer from this condition have legal options available. Insurance companies provide workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical costs and lost income, while the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects against discrimination and mandates that employers make appropriate accommodations. 

In some cases, a third-party lawsuit may also be an option. Suppose you’re facing challenges at work due to carpal tunnel syndrome. In that situation, you should speak with a workplace injury attorney. They can guide you through your legal choices and ensure you get the assistance and payment you need for your condition.

Remember, you have the right to a safe and accommodating workplace; a knowledgeable legal professional can help protect those rights. So, don’t hesitate to seek out assistance if you need it. 

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The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.