Tom's Story
It seemed like any other day for Tom, working as a maintenance technician at a busy commercial building. He had just finished repairing a piece of equipment and was walking through the facility when it happened—his foot caught on a loose cable that was carelessly left trailing across the floor. Before he knew it, he was on the ground, his wrist throbbing in pain after bracing his fall.
After being rushed to the hospital, Tom received the news that his wrist was broken, leaving him unable to perform the physical tasks his job required. With his income now in jeopardy, he began worrying about how he would cover the mounting medical bills and support his family. Adding to his stress, his employer implied that Tom was at fault for not paying attention to where he was walking, further complicating the situation.
In cases like Tom's, workplace accidents aren’t just physically painful—they can lead to significant financial strain. However, the employer’s denial of responsibility doesn’t mean the worker is left without options. In Queensland, employees injured in workplace accidents can access compensation through WorkCover, even in cases where fault is disputed. Investigating the incident thoroughly, gathering witness reports, and documenting the hazardous conditions that caused the trip can be crucial in ensuring the worker’s rights are protected.
Securing Compensation
For Tom, seeking legal advice early on ensured that he could make a strong case for compensation, covering both his medical treatment and the lost wages while he recovered from his injury. Knowing his rights and securing compensation through the proper channels was essential in getting him back on his feet.