Workers’ Compensation for Waste Management Workers:
On-the-Job Injuries

Waste management workers, including trash collectors, recycling workers, and other sanitation employees, face a wide range of occupational hazards. From lifting heavy containers to operating large machinery, the risks for injury are considerable. At Martin Law, we understand the challenges waste management workers encounter on the job, and we’re here to help you secure the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve if you’re injured at work.

Common Injuries Faced by Waste Management Workers

Waste management workers are susceptible to various injuries due to the physically demanding and hazardous nature of their jobs. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Back and Shoulder Injuries: Repeatedly lifting heavy objects can result in serious back or shoulder injuries, including strains, sprains, or chronic pain; many also suffer from herniations in their neck and back.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: Working in environments with wet, icy, or uneven surfaces can lead to falls, causing fractures, sprains, or head injuries.
• Lacerations and Cuts: Handling sharp materials such as broken glass, metal, or other debris increases the risk of cuts and puncture wounds along with infections.
• Vehicle Accidents: Waste management workers often operate or ride in large vehicles, which can lead to accidents and serious injuries.
• Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Workers may encounter harmful chemicals or biohazardous materials that can lead to respiratory issues, infections, or other long-term health problems.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits You’re Entitled To

If you’re injured on the job, Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation laws ensure that you have access to benefits, which may include:

• Medical Benefits: Workers’ compensation covers all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your injury, including hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and prescription medication.
• Wage Loss Benefits: If your injury affects your ability to work, you may be entitled to wage loss benefits to compensate for your loss of income while recovering.
• Specific Loss Benefits: Workers may be eligible for specific loss benefits in the case of permanent injuries, such as the loss of a limb, permanent loss of function, and facial scarring.

Steps to Take After an Injury

If you suffer an injury while working as a waste management professional, it’s critical to follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Report the Injury: Immediately report the injury to your employer, even if it seems minor.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Visit an authorized physician to properly assess and treat your injury.
3. File a Claim: Submit your workers’ compensation claim to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.

What If Your Claim is Denied?

It’s not uncommon for workers’ compensation claims to be denied or delayed. Insurance companies may argue that your injury is not work-related or challenge the severity of your condition. If this happens, Martin Law can help. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected, and that you receive the benefits you’re owed.

Contact Martin Law Today

At Martin Law, we have been representing injured workers in Pennsylvania for over 40 years, and we understand the unique challenges faced by waste management employees. If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t wait. Call us today at 215-587-8400 for a free consultation, or fill out our contact form. Our attorneys will guide you through every step of the workers’ compensation process to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits available to you.

Call Martin Law at 215-587-8400 to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions for Waste Management Workers’ Compensation

1. What should I do if I’m injured while collecting trash or handling hazardous materials?

If you are injured on the job, it’s essential to report the injury to your employer immediately and seek medical attention. Pennsylvania law requires that you notify your employer within 120 days of the injury, but reporting it right away helps protect your rights and speeds up the workers’ compensation process.

2. Can I receive workers’ compensation if I develop a repetitive strain injury from lifting heavy objects over time?

Yes. Many waste management workers suffer from repetitive strain injuries due to the physical demands of the job, such as lifting heavy bins or containers daily. Workers’ compensation covers both acute injuries and conditions that develop over time due to repetitive stress.

3. What if I am injured in a vehicle accident while operating or riding in a garbage truck?

If you are injured in a vehicle accident while performing your job duties, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits cover your medical bills and lost wages while you recover. Additionally, if another driver caused the accident, you may also be able to pursue a third-party personal injury claim for additional compensation.

4. Are illnesses from exposure to hazardous substances covered by workers’ compensation?

Yes. If you are exposed to hazardous chemicals, biological waste, or other dangerous substances in the course of your job and become ill as a result, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. This includes medical treatment and lost wages if the illness affects your ability to work.

5. Can I be compensated if I sustain an injury while working in hazardous weather conditions?

Absolutely. Many waste management workers are required to work in rain, snow, or extreme heat, which can lead to slip-and-fall accidents, frostbite, or heat-related illnesses. If your injury or illness is related to these working conditions, it should be covered by workers’ compensation.

6. What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. At Martin Law, our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the appeals process, challenge the denial, and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Contact us immediately to discuss your case.

7. Can I choose my own doctor for treatment after a work-related injury?

In Pennsylvania, your employer may have a list of approved doctors that you must visit for the first 90 days of treatment. After this period, you can choose your own doctor. It’s important to follow these rules to avoid losing your benefits.

8. What types of benefits can I receive through workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation benefits generally include coverage for medical expenses, wage loss benefits if your ability to work is affected, and specific loss benefits for permanent injuries (such as losing a limb or suffering scarring on your head, face or neck).

9. Can I still receive workers’ compensation if I aggravated an old injury while working?

Yes. If your job duties as a waste management worker caused an aggravation of a pre-existing condition, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The key is showing that your job made the condition worse or contributed to the injury.

10. Do I need a lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim?

While you are not required to have an attorney, having an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving the maximum benefits available. The process can be complicated, especially if your claim is denied, delayed, or challenged by your employer or their insurance company. At Martin Law, we help you navigate the process from start to finish. Keep in mind, your employer and its insurance carrier will have an attorney providing them guidance – why shouldn’t you have the same benefit.

11. What happens if I can’t return to my regular job duties due to my injury?

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous role as a waste management worker, you may be entitled to wage loss benefits or vocational rehabilitation services to help you transition into a new role. Our attorneys can help you understand your options and advocate for your rights.

12. What if my injury results in permanent disability?

If your injury leads to a permanent disability, such as the loss of a limb or the inability to return to any form of employment, you may qualify for additional disability benefits. These benefits are crucial in helping you maintain financial stability after a life-changing injury.