You might think of workers’ compensation as something that only applies if you have an accident that injures you. While this is a big part of what workers’ compensation is for, those accidents are only one type of issue that the system covers. As a server, you likely need to work all of your shifts to make ends meet. If you suffer from an injury that prevents you from working your shifts, workers’ compensation might be feasible.
Accident-related injuries
Some injuries that occur in restaurants are due to accidents. Workers who work around fryers might suffer from burn injuries. Wet floors might lead to slip-and-fall accidents that can lead to serious injuries, including back injuries or broken bones. Tripping over items and similar accidents are also possible. Working near sharp objects, such as shavers and slicers, can cause cuts that might be severe. You must be sure that you make reports of all accidents so that there is a record of the incident if you end up needing medical care for the incident.
Repetitive motion injuries
Servers are likely going to suffer from repetitive motion injuries at one point or another. Heavy trays are a primary cause of these injuries. You might suffer from wrist injuries from having to carry trays, especially in a restaurant that wants them carried on your palm above your shoulder without the tray touching your shoulder.
Back injuries are possible because of the heavy lifting and bending that servers have to do through a shift. The long hours on your feet might lead to varicose veins, knee injuries and similar conditions. Exposure to second-hand smoke and high noise levels might also cause issues for servers. Some of these conditions and repetitive motion injuries might not show up immediately.
Benefits might be available
No matter what type of injury or condition you suffered, you might opt to pursue a workers compensation claim. This claim can help you to seek out the money that you need to help pay your bills while you are unable to work. It can also help you to get your medical bills covered while you are getting treatment for the injury or illness that you suffered from because of your time as a server. There is a chance that you might qualify for other benefits, so be sure you understand exactly how workers’ compensation applies to your case.