It is easier than you think to be injured while on the job. If you have been hurt while unhitching a tractor trailer, you are not alone. While the laws do vary from state to state, most employers are required to maintain workers' compensation insurance coverage on their employees. Workers' compensation offers medical benefits and covers a portion of the employee's lost wages while he or she is unable to work because of the injury or illness. You should consult with a workers' compensation attorney if you have suffered any kind work-related injuries, especially those that might occur while unhitching a tractor trailer. Unhitching a Tractor Trailer Tractor trailers come with a hitch that connects the truck cab to the trailer that hauls the merchandise or load. A tractor for a semi can pull a tongue pull trailer, a gooseneck trailer, or a fifth wheel trailer. There are different kinds of hitches that are used on semi-tractors, such as a multi-hitch, which attaches behind a semi-tractor's fifth-wheel hitch. The different kinds of hitches have different load ratings. Hitching and unhitching trailers require extensive training and a thorough understanding of the safety protocol. Injuries can be serious from unhitching a tractor trailer, so make sure you do everything you can to protect yourself. Keep all evidence of the accident so you can support your claim. Injuries Sustained While Unhitching a Tractor Trailer Unhitching a tractor trailer involves bending, stretching, squatting, and lifting so it can lead to strains, sprains, and muscle, ligament, or tendon tears or damage. Just one slip can lead to crushed or broken bones. Serious back or spinal injuries can also result. In some instances, it can even lead to death. Here are a few of the injuries that can result from unhitching a tractor trailer: Broken Bones Amputations Crushed Bones Back Injuries Spinal Injuries Paralysis Ligament or Tendon Injuries Sprains and Strains Death Any of these injuries can require intensive treatment, such as physical therapy or physical rehabilitation services. You could be out of work for months and then you might not be able to return to the same kind of job. In those cases, workers' compensation might cover the costs of vocational re-training so you can re-enter the workforce. Workers' compensation claims are very detailed and complicated, so get legal representation you can trust to help you with your claim. Consult With a Workers' Compensation Attorney If you have suffered any on-the-job injury, such as an injury from unhitching a tractor trailer, you should immediately consult with a workers' compensation attorney. A workers' compensation attorney will file your benefits claim for you and ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the process. Your attorney will work to make sure you get the benefits that you are entitled to receive. Your lawyer will appeal any denials for benefits. If your benefits are stopped, your attorney will work to have them reinstated. Schedule your free case evaluation with a workers' compensation attorney today so you can make sure your claim is on the right track.
