When Can a Stroke Victim Return to Work?
January 3, 2020
The sudden hemorrhaging of a blood vessel in the brain, known as a stroke, can happen to anyone at any time. It is life-altering and may require months to recover. Some stroke victims suffer debilitating ailments, such as paralysis. If you suffered a stroke at work, your most important concern may be about your future, particularly your finances. While you are hoping to recover and return to work as quickly as possible, you should also consider filing for Workers’ Compensation.
Suffering a stroke is similar to suffering a heart attack; in terms of Workers’ Compensation, the employee would have to prove that the stroke was caused due to performing work-related tasks. A stroke can happen from physical exertion, stress, or heat, so if you work under those conditions, receiving Workers’ Compensation benefits should not be an issue.
There are other factors that can cause a stroke, and your employer may request medical records to disprove your case. Factors such as obesity, heart or cholesterol issues, or high blood pressure can also cause a stroke. If these factors are on your medical record, there may be an argument that pre-existing conditions contributed to your stroke.
It is important to have documentation containing photos of the location, any witnesses, what you were doing at the time, medical records, and how and when your employer was notified. Everything matters when you, the stroke victim, have the burden of proof.
Filing a Claim
It is vital to file a claim in a timely manner. Some employers require the incident be reported within 24 hours, while others require seven days. It is also important to discuss your situation with an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer who knows the laws of your state and can help build a strong case for you.
After you make your decision, returning to work will likely be determined by the physician, as well as your walking speed. Recent studies have shown that stroke victims have a harder time walking compared to those who did not experience a stroke. Stroke victims who could not return to work walked about 2.5 feet per second, while those that returned to work averaged above three feet per second. Non-stroke victims average closer to six feet per second.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Help Those Who Suffered a Stroke in the Workplace
If you suffered a stroke at work, contact the Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton right away. Our knowledgeable lawyers will fight for you and obtain the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Baltimore, we proudly serve clients throughout Maryland.
