Every employer aims to make the workplace environment as safe as possible, so policies and protocols are set in place for employees to follow. But a work-related injury is always a risk, and it can happen when both employees and employers least expect it. Like anywhere else, when an accident occurs, sometimes workers also get injured
Employers are required by the law to pay medical costs and all legal benefits to their injured employees. The insurance company is supposed to provide the right amount of compensation in accordance with the coverage of the agreed workers’ compensation insurance benefits.
But when should you hire a workers comp lawyer?
Filing A Workers Compensation Claim
One thing you have to remember is that a workers compensation lawyer is your legal advocate, so if you were hurt at work hire a lawyer. When filing a worker’s comp claim, it is your right and in your best interest to seek legal consultation as soon as possible. Insurance forms, medical documents, and paperwork can be complicated. They can also be difficult to sort out and keep track of.
An experienced workers comp lawyer can help you file a claim, documenting the entire process for things to go smoothly. Choose someone with many years of professional experience to help you get the right compensation you deserve.
Here’s how a workers comp lawyer can help when filing and processing a claim:
- Communicate with the workers compensation insurer to ensure all requirements and documents are submitted.
- Collect important medical evidence and other proofs to support your case.
- Initiate a bargaining settlement to ensure a win-win result.
- Appear at the workers compensation court hearing system as needed.
Serious Injury And Medical Issues
Serious injuries and medical issues may complicate a worker’s compensation case. Workplace accidents can prevent employees from returning to work because of partial or total disability. The situation is aggravated by some dishonest practices to avoid paying you the correct amount due.
There are many myths about workers compensation, but hiring a lawyer when you feel burdened is not one of them. A workers compensation attorney may demand that your employer and the insurance company give you a lump sum or weekly payment due to disability. Also, hiring a workers comp lawyer will give you a great advantage when it comes to fighting claim denials.
Your attorney will study and research both sides to ensure that all information that will be submitted is true, fair, and accurate. The lawyer will draft legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, findings of fact, and other legal statements to make sure the case proceeds smoothly.
Trouble With The Employer Or Insurance Company
If you’re having trouble getting the right compensation from your employer during the workers comp process, better consult a lawyer immediately. If you are not provided your benefits in a timely manner, or your claim is denied, or you are offered a settlement amount that doesn’t cover everything, then these are clear signs that you need stronger legal support.
The court will never make a judgment by merely relying on a story. Evidence should be presented, including a written statement from you (the claimant), the attending physician, nurses, or other witnesses. Your lawyer will collect these statements to establish substantial evidence and strengthen the case.
Here’s how an experienced workers comp lawyer can help you in this regard:
- Assist you in appealing your rejected valid claim.
- Argue your case in front of a judge to help you get the fair amount of settlement you deserve.
- Help you seek punitive damages if your employer retaliates against you, cuts your hours, or demotes you because of filing a worker’s compensation claim.
Social Security Beneficiary
Insurance companies tend to pay less or even deny payment for social security beneficiaries. Given this scenario, all injured workers should hire a workplace injury attorney to settle the case. That’s why it’s crucial to hire a workers comp lawyer if you are receiving social security benefits.
The settlement you will receive from your employer’s insurance company should be structured, so you can get the most out of it. A workers compensation attorney can organize the settlement terms.
Conclusion
Hire a workers compensation lawyer so you’ll have the best legal representative to stand by you if your employer or the insurance company fails to provide a fair amount of compensation for all your damages. Also, an attorney can help you get the most out of your social security and workers compensation benefits. From the collection of evidence to case presentation, an experienced workers comp lawyer will ensure that your claim is submitted on time, with complete paperwork and all requirements fulfilled.
