Jackhammers are used on a variety of construction projects. Just like other kinds of machinery, you can suffer serious injuries from operating the machine. Throughout the United States, most employers are required to offer workers' compensation coverage for their employees. Workers' compensation is a special kind of insurance that helps employees who have been injured while working. Workers' compensation covers medical expenses, pays a portion of lost wages, and when necessary covers the cost of vocational retraining when the injuries keep the employee from returning to the exact same job. The details of coverage varies from state to state as each state establishes its own laws regarding workers' comp. What is a Jackhammer? A jackhammer is a pneumatic hammer or drill that is portable. It combines a hammer and chisel so it can break up pavement, concrete, and soil. Larger rig jackhammers are attached to construction machinery and can break up pavement, rocks, concrete. Smaller jackhammers are held by hand. The effectiveness of the jackhammer is dependent on the force that is applied. As an example, a worker might basically put all his weight on the jackhammer when in operation to break through a concrete sidewalk or to reach through a paved parking lot. Injuries That Might Result from Jackhammer Usage Using a jackhammer is a strenuous job. The continuous motions from the jackhammer use can lead to repetitive injuries. A slip of the jackhammer can result in serious injuries or even cause permanent disabilities. If a jackhammer hits a foot or leg, it can have serious results. It could result in an amputation, serious blood, loss, and lengthy hospitalizations. Here are just a few of the injuries that could result from a jackhammer accident: Amputation Serious lacerations Broken bones Carpal tunnel Death Any of these injuries are very serious and warrant transportation to the nearest hospital by an ambulance. Injuries such as these often cause permanent disabilities or might require transitioning to another line of work. Either way, you could be off work for months trying to recover from the injuries that resulted. While some injuries are obvious right away, others might take time before they become obvious. Repetitive trauma injuries, such as carpal tunnel, might take months or even years to start causing problems. Specific statutes of limitations apply for work-related injuries, so you should consult with an experienced workers' compensation attorney to make sure you get the benefits that you deserve. Consult With a Workers' Compensation Attorney If you have suffered injuries while on the job, you should consult with a workers' compensation attorney so you can file a claim for benefits. Your attorney will make sure you are treated fairly and will appeal any denials for benefits. Your lawyer will also calculate to ensure you are getting the compensation you deserve and are entitled to for your claim. Your initial consultation with a workers' compensation attorney is free, so schedule your appointment with a workers' compensation attorney today.
