What is the difference between a specific injury and a cumulative trauma injury in California workers compensation?

In California, workers compensation covers injuries that occur on the job. These injuries can be either specific injuries or cumulative trauma injuries. Understanding the difference between the two is important for workers who may be entitled to benefits under the workers compensation system.

A specific injury is a one-time event that causes an injury. This could be something like slipping and falling, being struck by an object, or lifting something heavy and straining a muscle. Specific injuries are usually easy to identify and are the result of a single, identifiable incident.

On the other hand, a cumulative trauma injury is an injury that occurs over time due to repetitive actions or exposure to a hazard. These injuries are often more difficult to identify because they may not be immediately apparent and can take time to develop. Examples of cumulative trauma injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and back injuries.

One key difference between specific injuries and cumulative trauma injuries is the way they are treated under California workers compensation laws. Specific injuries are generally easily known, as they occur on the job and are the result of a single event. However, cumulative trauma injuries may not be easily known and may often require a doctor to confirm the cumulative trauma injury occurred.

If you have suffered a specific injury or a cumulative trauma injury on the job in California, it is important to seek medical attention and report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to benefits under the workers compensation system, including medical treatment and loss of wages. An experienced workers compensation attorney can help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

In conclusion, the main difference between a specific injury and a cumulative trauma injury in California workers compensation is the way they occur. Specific injuries are the result of a one-time event, while cumulative trauma injuries are the result of repetitive actions or exposure to a hazard over time. Understanding this difference is important for workers seeking benefits under the workers compensation system.

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