Every year, countless workers in Victoria experience neck and/or head injuries while at work. These injuries disrupt not just their ability to earn a living but also their overall quality of life. Pain, medical costs, and financial stress can make recovery even harder.

Navigating the compensation process may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance, you can secure the entitlements you’re owed. Carbone Lawyers has helped thousands of injured workers achieve the compensation they deserve. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery.

Understanding the Impact of Neck and Head Injuries

Neck and head injuries can happen in any workplace. Whether it’s whiplash from a sudden fall or a concussion caused by an accident on-site, these injuries often lead to extended time off work or permanent physical limitations. Some physical workplace injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, may have long-lasting effects on your ability to perform daily tasks or return to your previous role.

The consequences go beyond the physical. The financial strain of lost wages, ongoing medical bills, and the stress of recovery can take a toll on both the injured worker and their family. This is where understanding your rights and entitlements under WorkSafe Victoria becomes critical.

Your Rights Under WorkSafe Victoria

WorkSafe Victoria provides an insurance system for workplace injuries, meaning you can claim support regardless of who was at fault. Here are the key entitlements available for neck and head injury claims:

• Weekly Payments: If your injury prevents you from working, you can receive:
  • First 13 weeks: 95% of your Pre-Injury Average Weekly Earnings (PIAWE).
  • After 13 weeks: 80% of your PIAWE. Payments can extend to 130 weeks or longer if you meet strict eligibility criteria, such as more than a 21% Whole Person Impairment (WPI) rating.
• Medical Treatment Costs: Reasonable costs for treatments like physiotherapy, surgery, and rehabilitation are covered. Some services may require pre-approval or referrals, so it’s important to work with your healthcare providers to manage this.
• Lump-Sum Compensation: If your injury results in permanent impairment, you could qualify for a lump sum. An Independent Medical Assessor approved by WorkSafe will evaluate your condition.
• Superannuation Contributions: After 52 weeks of weekly payments, WorkSafe contributes to your superannuation fund, ensuring your long-term financial stability.

These entitlements are designed to alleviate the financial and medical burden of your injury, but the claims process can be complex.

Navigating Barriers to Compensation

Despite the support WorkSafe provides, many injured workers face challenges when making claims:

• Disputes Over Injury Severity: WorkSafe agents may challenge the seriousness of your injury, limiting your access to extended payments or lump-sum benefits.
• Delays in Documentation: Accurate and timely medical records are essential. Missing documents or unclear medical evidence can lead to delays or rejections.
• Recovery Period Issues: Some injuries take longer to heal or worsen over time, making it harder to prove their long-term impact during initial claims.

These hurdles can leave you feeling frustrated and vulnerable. Seeking expert legal assistance can help you overcome these barriers and maximise your compensation.

How Carbone Lawyers Can Help You

We specialise in WorkSafe Victoria claims, with decades of experience helping injured workers secure their entitlements. Here’s how we can support you:

• Proven Expertise: We have an in-depth understanding of the WorkSafe system, ensuring no detail in your claim is overlooked.
• Personalised Support: From filing claims to challenging denials, we tailor our strategies to suit your unique circumstances.
• No Win, No Fee Policy: We’re committed to your success, which is why you won’t pay anything upfront. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.

Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what matters most—your recovery.

Rebuild Your Future with Confidence

A neck or head workplace injury can feel like an insurmountable challenge, but you don’t have to face it alone. Understanding your rights under WorkSafe Victoria and having the right legal team by your side can make all the difference.

Carbone Lawyers fight for your rights with no upfront costs. Call us today on 1800 369 888 or complete an assessment form to get started. Don’t settle for less, let us help you get what you deserve.