Back and neck injuries are some of the most common—and debilitating—injuries suffered on the job. Whether you work in construction, railroads, warehouses, or an office, a serious back or neck injury can disrupt your life, limit your mobility, and impact your ability to work. At Kujawski & Associates, we help injured workers in Illinois understand their rights and take action to seek the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Workplace Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck injuries can happen in nearly any workplace, often due to:
Heavy lifting or overexertion
Repetitive motions or poor ergonomics
Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or other heights
Vehicle accidents while on the job
Being struck by equipment or objects
Slips, trips, and falls on slick or uneven surfaces
Even jobs that seem low-risk can cause injury over time—office workers, for example, can suffer chronic pain from poor posture and repetitive movements.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Claims
Most employees who suffer back or neck injuries at work are covered under Illinois workers’ compensation laws, which provide benefits such as:
Medical treatment
Temporary total disability (TTD) payments while you’re off work
Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits for long-term damage
Vocational rehabilitation services if you can’t return to your old job
However, workers’ comp does not cover pain and suffering, and it generally prevents you from suing your employer.
That said, if your injury was caused by a third party (e.g., a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or negligent driver), you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for additional compensation beyond workers’ comp.
FELA Claims for Railroad Workers
If you work in the railroad industry, you are not covered by workers’ compensation. Instead, your rights fall under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), which allows injured railroad workers to sue their employer directly for negligence.
FELA claims require proving fault, but they often result in higher compensation—including damages for pain, suffering, and loss of future income. Kujawski & Associates has decades of experience successfully handling FELA claims for railroad employees across Illinois and the Midwest.
What to Do If You Suffer a Back or Neck Injury at Work
Report the injury immediately to your employer or supervisor.
Get medical treatment—don’t wait, even if the pain seems minor.
Document everything, including how the injury happened and who witnessed it.
Speak to a qualified workplace injury attorney before signing any forms or accepting a settlement.
Early legal guidance can make a significant difference in how much compensation you receive—and how quickly you get it.
We’re Here to Help
If you’ve suffered a back or neck injury on the job, don’t try to navigate the legal process alone. The team at Kujawski & Associates is committed to protecting injured workers and railroad employees throughout Illinois. As an experienced personal injury lawyer, we can help you understand your rights, file a claim, and pursue the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer and explore your legal options.
