Lifting and back injuries, in short
Back injuries from lifting, carrying and twisting are among the most common work injuries. We help Canberra workers claim weekly payments, treatment costs and lump sums. United Legal is a Canberra firm based in Fyshwick. We work on a No Win, No Fee basis and your first conversation is free.
Back Injury at Work: what you need to know
A back injury can happen in a moment, lifting something awkward, or build up over months of heavy or repetitive work. Either way, it can stop you working and affect your whole life.
Back injuries are often disputed by insurers, who may say the problem is "degenerative" or not caused by work. Clear medical evidence linking your injury to your work is important, and we help you get it.
Back injuries we help with
- Disc bulges and herniations
- Muscle and ligament strains
- Nerve damage and sciatica
- Aggravation of an existing back condition
- Spinal fractures
- Injuries needing surgery
How lifting injuries happen and what they cost
Most back injuries at work come from lifting, twisting or carrying loads that are too heavy or awkward, often without the right equipment or help. Disc bulges, herniations and nerve damage can cause pain down the legs and may need surgery.
A back injury can stop you doing your usual job for months or for good. Workers compensation covers weekly payments and medical costs, and if your employer did not provide safe lifting systems, a common law claim may cover your loss of future earnings.
What workers compensation can pay
Under the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT) you do not have to prove anyone was at fault. You can usually claim weekly payments while you cannot work, medical and rehabilitation costs, and a lump sum for permanent impairment. If your employer or someone else was negligent, a common law claim for damages may be worth much more.
Read more about workers compensation claims.
Evidence that helps your claim
You do not need to have everything before you call us, but these records make a workers compensation claim stronger. Keep copies of anything you have:
- Your claim form and the date you reported the injury
- Certificates of capacity from your doctor
- Payslips and tax returns showing your earnings
- Incident reports, photos and witness names
- Emails or messages about your injury or duties
How much could a lifting and back injuries claim be worth?
Every claim is different. The amount depends on what you earned before the injury, how long you cannot work, your medical needs, your level of permanent impairment, and whether a common law claim is available. We give you an honest estimate once we understand your situation, and we prepare every claim to get its full value rather than settling early.
Why people choose United Legal
- Three lawyers on every case. Your claim is checked by more than one experienced lawyer, start to finish.
- A local Canberra firm since 2004. We know the ACT schemes, insurers, doctors and courts.
- No Win, No Fee. No upfront costs, and you get a written costs agreement before we start.
- Serious injury experience. Our results include a $20m+ settlement and a $1.4m workers compensation claim.
Watch: lifting and back injuries
What to do now
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as you can, and make sure it is recorded.
- See a doctor and ask for a workers compensation certificate of capacity.
- Lodge your claim form with your employer, and keep copies of everything.
- Get advice before you sign anything from the insurer or agree to a settlement.
Lifting and back injuries: FAQs
I had a bad back before. Can I still claim?
The insurer wants me to return to work before I am ready. What can I do?
Do I need an MRI for a back injury claim?
What if I had back problems before?
How much does a workers compensation lawyer cost?
Is there a time limit?
Find out where you stand.
Free claim check · No Win, No Fee