When most people think of workers’ compensation claims, they often imagine injuries occurring as a result of jobs that are very obviously physically demanding, like construction or factory work. However, teachers, whose jobs are physically demanding in a less obvious way, are also at a particularly heightened risk of workplace injuries and illnesses.
While teaching may not immediately appear to be a high-risk profession, the challenges educators face daily can lead to conditions that require workers’ compensation. Teachers in Illinois, like all employees, deserve the protection and benefits that workers’ comp provides when they are injured or fall ill on the job.
Common kinds of work-related harm that teachers suffer
Teachers work in environments that feature unique risks, many of which are taken for granted by parents, students and the public. Some of the most common injuries and illnesses commonly teachers face include:
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Tasks like grading papers, typing on a computer and setting up classrooms can lead to repetitive strain injuries over time. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are common among educators and may require medical treatment or time away from work.
- Slips, Trips and Falls: Schools are often bustling with activity, making slips, trips and falls a common hazard. Wet floors, misplaced backpacks and uneven surfaces in hallways and classrooms can lead to serious injuries, including sprains, fractures and concussions.
- Student-Related Injuries: Teachers working with younger children or in special education settings may face injuries related to student behavior. This can include being struck or injured while breaking up fights, managing physical outbursts and strain related to assisting students with mobility issues.
- Exposure to Illnesses: Teachers are frequently exposed to contagious illnesses, especially in crowded classrooms. These conditions can result in extended time off work and significant medical expenses.
Under Illinois law, teachers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if they are injured or become ill due to their jobs. Unfortunately, despite their rights, teachers may encounter challenges when filing workers’ compensation claims. School districts and their insurance companies may downplay the seriousness of injuries, argue that their conditions were pre-existing and delay payments. Thankfully, seeking personalized guidance and support is always an option.