Every year, many Australian workers suffer eye injuries on the job. From flying debris in construction sites to chemical burns in manufacturing plants, these injuries can range from mild irritation to permanent vision loss. What many workers don’t realise is that they may be entitled to more compensation than they realise.
If you have suffered an eye injury at work, you may be eligible for WorkCover benefits, including weekly wage payments, medical expense coverage, and lump sum compensation if there is permanent impairment. However, claims can be denied, delayed, or underpaid, leaving workers struggling to recover both physically and financially.
Learn more about claiming WorkCover for an eye injury, ensuring you don’t miss out on the compensation you deserve.
Workplace Eye Injuries: How They Happen and Why They Matter
Eye injuries occur across a range of industries, but particularly in construction, welding, manufacturing, and chemical handling. Some injuries heal with treatment, while others result in permanent vision impairment, affecting a worker’s ability to earn a living.
Common Causes of Workplace Eye Injuries
- Foreign objects (dust, debris, or metal fragments) can scratch the cornea or cause abrasions.
- Chemical burns from industrial cleaners, acids, or solvents can cause severe eye damage.
- Blunt trauma from tools, machinery, or falling objects can result in bleeding or ruptured eyeballs.
- Penetrating injuries from nails, glass, or metal shards can lead to vision loss.
- Radiation and thermal burns from welding, UV exposure, or extreme heat can cause long-term damage.
- Electrical burns from high-voltage accidents can disrupt the optic nerve and affect vision.
Employers are required to provide protective equipment and safe work environments, but injuries still occur due to negligence, lack of training, or inadequate safety measures.
Your WorkCover Rights & Compensation You Are Entitled To
WorkCover is a workers’ compensation scheme designed to support injured workers with financial aid (WorkSafe Victoria). If you sustain an eye injury at work, you may be entitled to:
1. Weekly Payments for Lost Income
- 95 per cent of your pre-injury wage for the first 13 weeks.
- 80 per cent of your wage thereafter for up to 130 weeks, depending on your ability to work.
2. Medical and Rehabilitation Costs
- WorkCover covers surgeries, doctor visits, hospital stays, medication, and rehabilitation therapy.
- Ambulance and transportation costs related to treatment are also included.
3. Lump Sum Compensation for Permanent Vision Impairment
- If your eye injury results in permanent impairment, you may be eligible for a one-time lump sum payout.
- This payment is not automatic, as you must apply separately to receive it.
4. Work Injury Damages Payout (Common Law Claim)
- If your injury was caused by employer negligence, you may be able to sue for damages.
- Compensation can cover pain and suffering, future lost wages, and superannuation losses.
Many workers don’t realise they qualify for additional lump sum payments, meaning they receive an award of compensation less than they are entitled to. Understanding all of your options can significantly impact your long-term financial security.
Filing a WorkCover Claim
WorkCover claims must be filed correctly to avoid delays or rejections. What you need to do is:
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- Get a WorkCover Certificate of Capacity from your doctor.
- Ensure all injuries and symptoms are properly documented.
Step 2: Report Your Injury to Your Employer
- Inform your employer as soon as possible.
- Your employer must notify their WorkCover insurance provider.
Step 3: Submit a WorkCover Claim Form
- Fill out a WorkCover claim form and submit it to your employer or WorkSafe Victoria.
- Include medical records, incident reports, and any supporting documentation.
What If Your WorkCover Claim Is Denied?
Unfortunately, many workers have their claims rejected. If this happens, you still have options.
Reasons WorkCover Claims May Be Denied
- The employer disputes that the injury occurred at work.
- Insufficient medical evidence proving the severity of the injury.
- The claim was lodged late or contained incorrect information.
How to Challenge a Denied Claim
- Request a review through the Workplace Injury Commission (WIC).
- Provide additional medical evidence from specialists.
- Seek legal help, as claims may get overturned when handled by WorkCover lawyers.
If WorkCover has denied or cut off your benefits, legal experts can help you appeal and fight for what you are owed. Contact our team for more information and assistance.
Can You Sue Your Employer for an Eye Injury?
If your injury was caused by unsafe work conditions, you may be able to sue for damages under common law.
When Can You Take Legal Action?
- If your employer failed to provide proper safety equipment.
- If they ignored safety regulations that contributed to your injury.
- If your work conditions aggravated a pre-existing eye condition.
Compensation in a Common Law Claim
- Pain and suffering damages for serious injuries.
- Loss of future earnings if you cannot return to your previous job.
- Superannuation losses if your work capacity is permanently reduced.
Pursuing a lawsuit against an employer is complex, but in some cases, it is the best way to secure long-term financial stability.
Fight for Your Compensation
WorkCover claims can be complicated, stressful, and frustrating, especially if you are recovering from a serious injury. Many workers don’t receive their full entitlements simply because they don’t have the right legal representation.
Why Choose Carbone Lawyers?
- Experts in WorkCover compensation and workplace injury claims.
- Case files showcase our success in securing lump sum payouts for injured workers.
- No win, no fee, meaning you don’t pay unless a successful outcome is reached.
Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve
If you have suffered an eye injury at work, you have legal rights to compensation. But you may not receive your full entitlements unless you take action.Do not let insurers or employers downplay your claim. Speak to a WorkCover specialist today to ensure you are getting everything you are owed. Your vision and financial future matter. Let Carbone Lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve.
