Does workers' compensation cover only sudden or accidental injuries?

  No. If your condition develops gradually over time (i.e. carpal tunnel or back problems), but is a definite, work-related injury or illness, it may be compensable.  Your injury does not have to be caused by a sudden accident to be covered by workers' compensation. A lot of injuries are caused by repetitive use or exposure over a long period of time. You may also be entitled to workers' compensation benefits if you are suffering from an illness or disease that is the gradual result of work conditions (i.e. heart conditions, lung disease, and stress-related digestive problems).  For an injury to be compensable, it must be causally related to a risk associated with that type of employment (i.e. typing can cause carpal tunnel, etc.).  If you have been injured on the job and have questions about whether you are entitled to workers' compensation benefits, contact Phillip Miller & Associates at (800) 337-HURT (4878) or (615) 356-2000 for legal advice.