When we think of injuries that warrant workers’ compensation benefits, we tend to think of broken bones, back injuries, and severe lacerations sustained in accidents. For many, however, injuries and occupational illnesses come in an entirely different form. Exposure to toxic chemicals can result in serious conditions and injuries that could affect an individual for the rest of his or her life. If you were exposed to toxic chemicals, resulting in injuries or illness, you need to reach out to a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible to begin the process of filing for the benefits you deserve.
Different Types of Toxic Exposure
The list of toxic chemicals that pose a threat to the safety of employees is vast, but some of the most common toxic substances that are known to cause harm or death include asbestos, benzene, arsenic, zinc, iodine, uranium, chloroform, and hydrogen peroxide, to name a few. Asbestos is particularly well-known for causing mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer that is incurable. Cases that involve asbestos are uniquely different compared to other toxic exposure cases since they are often filed as personal injury claims.
Precautions Do Not Invalidate a Workers’ Compensation Claim
The workers’ compensation system is not based on fault, so whether or not your employer took proper safety precautions to prevent you and other employees from being exposed to harmful toxins will not impact the validity of your workers’ compensation claim. It is only required that you prove the exposure occurred during the course of your employment and that it resulted in illness or bodily harm.
What Next?
If you suspect that you were exposed to toxic substances at work, resulting in injury or illness, it is crucial that you see a doctor as soon as possible to have your condition evaluated. He or she might even refer you to a specialist who specifically handles workplace toxic exposures. Once your doctor is able to determine if you have an illness or condition that was caused by toxic exposure at your place of work, you must contact your employer immediately in order to begin filing your claim.
Toxic exposure cases can be complicated and require extensive testing and the involvement of chemical experts. As such, it is important that you seek the assistance of a skilled workers’ compensation attorney who has the resources and knowledge to handle your case and ensure you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Workers Compensation Attorneys in Sacramento
If you were exposed to toxic chemicals on the job and it resulted in the development of a harmful condition or an injury, you could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. At Smolich and Smolich, our Sacramento workers’ compensation attorneys provide exceptional representation for injured workers and will fight on your behalf to obtain the benefits you need and deserve.
Get started on your case today and call our law firm at (916) 571-0400 to schedule a free initial case evaluation. You will not owe us any legal fees unless we win your case!