Getting hurt on the job can be a traumatic experience emotionally, physically, and financially. We wake up and go to our jobs each day. Most of us rarely consider the risks that we face that may cause us to be hurt on the job. Sometimes, these injuries are minor and we can still work. In other instances, the injuries are severe and we are no longer able to work. Fortunately, there could be help available for you. Workers’ Compensation Protects Injured Workers If you’re hurt on the job, you should consider filing a workers’ compensation claim through your employer. Workers’ compensation was designed to protect injured workers. There is no charge for employees to file a claim. If you’re hurt on the job, you have rights under the law. Workers’ compensation has many benefits that may be helpful to you. Lost wages If you’re unable to work temporarily or permanently because of your on the job injury, workers’ compensation may provide you with a portion of your lost wages. Medical expenses You are entitled to emergency medical care and visits to a healthcare provider if you are hurt on the job. Workers’ compensation provides assistance with medical bills, prescriptions, surgeries, hospital stays, and other necessities. Occupational training Sometimes, injuries are so severe that workers are unable to return to their original occupations although they may still be able to work. In this instance, workers’ compensation may provide occupational training to help injured workers get back into the workforce. Company Profile: US Airways US Airways is an airline that is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona. They operate under the same business license as American Airlines because of a partial merger. They employ around 32,000 people. Technically, US Airways on its own name does not make any flights as of October 2015. The planes are still in use by American Airlines. Risks Faced by US Airways Workers US Airways operates under American Airlines. Common jobs include flight attendant, pilot, and customer service. The level of risk faced by any employee will ultimately depend on their job duties. This list isn’t meant to be all-inclusive. Flight Attendant Turbulence is one of the most common issues that happen when onboard a plane. Particularly rough turbulence can cause flight attendants to get injured. Flight attendants are also at risk of head, neck, and back injuries from a slip and fall. A slip and fall in a tiny space means that you are more likely to hit your head. Because you’re on your feet a lot and helping passengers with overhead bags, you may eventually develop repetitive stress syndrome. This may seem like an inconvenience at best, but it can actually cause you to need surgery. Pilots Although airplane pilots sit in the cockpit, they still face risks. Working the same controls day in and day out for long periods of time can cause the development of repetitive stress. Sitting in a small space can cause you to move in a way that injures your neck or back. Customer Service US Airways hires customer service workers to answer calls. Constant use of your hands while typing and the strain put on your neck from staring at a computer screen can cause repetitive stress injury. Learn More about Your Rights Under the Law If you were hurt during your shift at US Airways or American Airlines, you have rights under the law. To learn about your rights and to get help with your claim, contact a qualified workers’ compensation attorney. *The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against US Airways, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
