Many workers' compensation claims arise from accidents and acute injuries while working. However, did you know that Missouri workers' compensation laws provide the right for workers with occupational diseases to seek benefits, as well? Many people develop occupational diseases that require medical treatment and potentially time away from work. It is important to understand your rights to benefits if you contract an occupational illness. The workers' compensation law firm of Morrison Webster & Carlton helps clients in Joplin and Springfield, Missouri, with a wide range of claims and appeals. If you are dealing with a disease from your job, contact our legal team to discuss your rights to benefits under Missouri law. The following are only some examples of common occupational diseases that we see qualifying for workers� compensation benefits.
Many different jobs require people to come in contact with biohazards, which can include human blood and bodily fluids, pathogens, microbiological waste, and more. Healthcare workers are often at the highest risk of contracting infectious diseases, as they constantly work with patients who have these conditions. Hospital and health center staff members are at particular risk for the following:
In addition to healthcare workers, other occupations that include risk of infectious diseases include correctional worker, forensic scientists, social service providers, lab workers, and researchers.
At work, many people regularly inhale toxic fumes, chemicals, particles, fibers, dust, and other irritants to the airways. Such exposure can result in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions. Some occupations that run a high risk of toxic exposure include:
This is not an exhaustive list by any means, and we represent people in many different jobs that suffered occupational respiratory diseases.
In some cases, exposure to certain dust, chemicals, or fibers can cause life-threatening cancer. If you were exposed to asbestos or silica, it is possible that you may get diagnosed with mesothelioma or other types of lung cancers. Cancer can require extensive and invasive treatment and can often be fatal.
Just like an on-the-job injury, workers' compensation benefits should cover the expenses of an occupational disease. Benefits you might be eligible to receive include:
If you lost a loved one due to an occupational disease, you should be eligible for death benefits from the workers' compensation insurer.
If you have an occupational disease, you should discuss the matter with a Missouri workers' compensation lawyer at The Law Firm of Webster & Carlton as soon as possible. We can help you obtain the benefits you need and deserve. Call our Springfield office at 417-890-4600, our Joplin office at 417-781-5690, or contact us online for more information about your options for benefits.