The nice weather is finally here to stay in Minnesota, and that means roofing season will soon be in full swing. Roof installation is a very physically demanding job that also involves heights, and injuries can occur even when proper safety measures are taken. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some of the most common injuries among roofers, and how they can go about getting compensation for their injuries in Minnesota.
Common Roofing Injuries
Before we explain how roofers can go about collecting compensation for an on-the-job accident, here’s a look at some of the most common injuries suffered in their line of work.
Falls – If a ladder shifts or a person loses their footing while working on a roof, a fall injury can occur. Even if they are only falling a few feet, fractures and serious spine and head injuries can happen.
Heat Stroke – Because roofs can’t be completed when it’s raining or snowy, most of the work gets done in the hot summers. Temperatures may be more ideal here in Minnesota compared to Texas or Florida, but heat stroke and other heat-related injuries can occur if you’re not careful. Always ensure there is plenty of water on the jobsite, and take a short break in the shade if you’re feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
Tool Injuries – Roofers also frequently work with handheld machinery like nail guns to help make the job go faster. If a hand or a foot ends up in the wrong location when working with one of their tools, a significant injury can occur.
Puncture Wounds – Similarly, nails are common on the jobsite after an old roof has been removed and a new one installed. Even though most workers have steel-toed boots to help keep their feet safe, one wrong step can lead to a puncture wound.
Back Injuries – Finally, roofing can be extremely hard on your body, especially on your spine. Constantly bending and twisting can lead to an acute injury or chronic back pain that develops later in life. If you suspect that your back pain was caused by your work as a roofer, know that you have options to pursue compensation.
Getting Injury Compensation As A Minnesota Roofer
Only a fraction of injured roofers end up seeking compensation for injuries they occur on the job, and this can cause financial issues for them now and later on in life. Many don’t want to miss a paycheck or leave their coworkers shorthanded on the jobsite, but you owe it to them and to yourself to collect the compensation you’re entitled to receive and to return to work only when it is safe. Working injured can cause more problems for yourself and your crew.
Others opt not to file for compensation out of fear of repercussions from their employer. Remember, your employer is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance and they are not allowed to take retaliatory actions against an employee who files for compensation, otherwise they can open themselves up to another lawsuit. Don’t let your employer bully you into not filing for compensation.
Finally, we understand that the workers’ compensation system is a complex process, but don’t let that fear keep you from collecting what you rightfully deserve. Our team will be more than happy to build a case for you and file all the necessary paperwork so that you can focus on your health and your family. We also know that a language barrier may make it more difficult to pursue compensation, which is why we have bilingual staff members who can ensure everything is understood and explained in a way that you comprehend. We have all the tools you need to collect compensation in the wake of a roofing injury.
For more information, or to talk to a lawyer about your compensation options following an on-the-job injury, reach out to the team at Hey Workers today at (844) 439-9675.
