Mobile, Alabama Workplace Exposure Lawyer

Some workplace injuries are caused by dramatic events like explosions or fires. But other injuries are caused silently by exposure to dangerous chemicals at work. Unfortunately, many workers end up with an occupational illness or condition which impairs their ability to work and could even turn out to be fatal.

At Roger Varner Injury Law, we proudly represent injured workers in all sorts of workers’ compensation claims. If you or a loved one suffered injury due to workplace exposure, please contact us.

Dangerous Chemicals & Toxins

Workers are exposed to a variety of dangerous substances at work. Some of these substances are inhaled, while others are absorbed through the skin. Workplace exposure typically involves:

  • Chemicals like lead, ammonia, benzene, pesticides, and other dangerous chemicals
  • Radiation
  • Particulate matter which can be inhaled
  • Extreme heat or noise

Employers should be aware of the hazards and provide sufficient personal protection equipment (PPE), like masks or respirators. They should also have processes in place for the safe handling, storage, and transportation of dangerous materials.

Unfortunately, workplace safety is often lacking. Many workers are not adequately trained on how to protect themselves, or the PPE is old and inadequate.

Workplace Exposure Injuries

Our clients have suffered some of the worst illnesses imaginable after exposure to toxins:

  • Lung disease
  • Cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Asthma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Mesothelioma
  • Nerve injury
  • Infectious diseases
  • Allergic reactions

Some of these illnesses will prove fatal. In fact, Alabama sees roughly 80-100 fatal workplace accidents each year, and some fatalities are probably not captured by official statistics.

How to Prove the Origin Your Illness

In many ways, occupational exposure cases are no different than other workplace accidents. You are entitled to compensation to cover the costs of medical bills and lost wages if you are hurt at work. However, workplace exposure cases are different in one respect: it’s difficult to prove that your exposure came at work. Some insurers will argue you were probably exposed to toxins at work or school—anywhere but on the job.

You also need to show that exposure was a substantial factor in your illness. Many people get cancer for no known reason. The key is connecting the illness to the substances you were exposed to at work.

At Varner Injury Law, we work extensively to prove these critical facts. This requires preparation and investigation. We have helped many people in workplace exposure cases, so we know how to convince an insurer to take your claim seriously.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits

If you were injured by a workplace exposure, you are entitled to compensation. Like other states, Alabama has a workers’ compensation system in place to pay benefits to those hurt on the job. Benefits include:

Medical benefits. You should receive care to treat your illness or injury. This care can include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, prescription drugs, and rehabilitation. Many workers need ongoing physical therapy to overcome their limitations.

Missed wages. Some workers will qualify for a wage loss benefit. Typically, you can receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state minimum and maximum limits. A doctor will need to approve the time you miss work.

Disability benefits. Disability can be temporary or permanent. You might also qualify for permanent partial disability benefits if you lose the use of a body part, such as eyesight or hearing.

Vocational rehabilitation. These benefits help prepare injured workers to take on other jobs. You might receive additional training or schooling, depending on the situation.

Death benefits. Certain family members like spouses and children can receive compensation if a loved one dies. The amount received will depend on the number of dependents.

Funeral expenses. Families can also receive money to cover the cost of a funeral.

Third Party Lawsuits

Although you can’t sue your employer for your workplace exposure, you might sue a third party. For example, a defective product used at work could have leaked chemicals, leading to your exposure. Or defective PPE could have failed to protect you.

In this lawsuit, we can seek full compensation for your losses, including all lost income, as well as pain and suffering. This type of lawsuit is not available in all cases—but it might be in yours.

Call a Mobile, Alabama Workplace Exposure Attorney Today

Workplace exposure cases are difficult to bring successfully. This is a difficult time for many injured workers, who are spending their days in the hospital or going to physical therapy. Let us help you understand your legal rights. To begin the process, call us today at (833) 482-7637.