Question: I broke my back at work .....? and tried to get better for a year, not knowing it was too late to sue the employer who fired me a month after this all happened (becasue they said I was working too slow)  I was there 8 years and just got a new superintendent (boss) who wanted there own people in, who made me do a job I kew was not safe, who now got fired herself for no one will say why. The only thing I could do is apply for disability (I did) What is the best way to get disability was turned down twice and now hired a attorney, still seeing doctors who say they cant do much becasue of where it is L5 dont know what to do.

Answer: The one year statute of limitations does not apply to all cases.  Make sure that your attorney does personal injury law.  There are many areas of law.  Do you have any evidence to support your claims?  Medical records, work schedules, work assignment sheets could be used to prove that there has been a substantial change in your ability to do work for that particular employer.  Some states allow up to three years for medical claims due to the outcome of the treatment not being immediately available.\n\nFiling for unemployment compensation should be sought; whether it is awarded or not.  This is done at state level and usually involves filling out paperwork to substantiate your claim.  Your employer will be asked to submit a statement.  This step will help to validate the reasons for your dismissal from work.\n\nSee resource reference:  www.merck.com  \nExtensive loss of body functions can be devastating, causing depression and loss of self-esteem. Learning exactly what has happened and what to expect in the near and distant future helps people cope with the loss. Physical and occupational therapy (see Rehabilitation: Physical Therapy) helps preserve muscle function. Therapists teach people special techniques to help them overcome lost functions. For most people, compassionate and skilled nursing care, psychologic counseling, and emotional support from family members and close friends help. Family members may also benefit from counseling.\n\nPerhaps a neurosurgeon could better diagnose your condition.  A trauma spinal injury may be of several types (see source).  Your attorney should have their (doctor's) statements on file as it pertains to your particular case.  Contact organizations such as the Christopher Reeves Foundation to learn of advancements in spinal cord research.\n\nSome states have departments that specialize in Rehabilitation Services.  They offer training to those who qualify (and pending funding availability).  They test to determine areas of interest and types of work that you can do.  They often pay for education or training that will enable you to continue working.  Learning to do other work may enable you to continue working.  It would help prevent a sense of helplessness and depression due to lack of personal fulfillment.  If your state offers Job Service, speaking with them about Rehabilitative Services may provide a name and telephone number to get things started.\n\nOften physical therapy is part of spinal injury treatment.  One should be careful not to irritate the injury site or create further damage.  If disability was denied on two separate occassions, they probably feel certain of your ability to work.  They, too, may be able to refer you to services designed to help in your recovery from your injury.
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