If you have suffered injuries in a workplace accident, you can pursue a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. While each state sets its own laws regarding workers’ compensation, most employers across the country must maintain this special insurance coverage for their employees at no additional charge. Workers’ compensation provides medical benefits and covers a portion of lost wages in the event that you suffer a workplace injury or work-related illness. The claims process is very concise and complicated, so you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney right away. Importance of Working With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney If you have been hurt while on the job, or if you have been diagnosed with an illness or disease that was caused by your work duties, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney who is licensed to practice in your state. You want an attorney who is familiar with the state and local laws of your area. Insurance companies are in the business to make money and to protect their clients. With that being said, it is important to know that they aren’t in the business to take care of your best interests. There are many legitimate workers’ compensation claims that are denied by the workers’ compensation insurers. Some companies are self-insured, meaning that they will pay the claims themselves. They aren’t going to want to pay out of their coffers for claims that they might find questionable or that they believe they can dispute. What Will an Attorney Do for My Workers’ Compensation Claim? An attorney will make sure all paperwork is filed in a timely manner for your claim. Many claims are denied because proper protocol wasn’t followed or because deadlines were not met. State laws vary, but there are very specific statutes of limitations for notifying your employer of an injury or illness from your workplace and for filing your claim to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Here are some of the things a workers’ compensation attorney will do regarding your claim: Take depositions from you, physicians, witnesses, and medical experts Investigate your accident Conduct legal research Draft documents such as pleadings, motions, briefs, appeals, and findings Represent you before a judge at any hearings For your workers’ compensation lawyer to successful do his or her job, you will need to cooperate and provide them with what is needed to succeed with your claim. You must be honest and respond to all questions, provide documentation such as medical bills and medical records, provide proof of missed work, and attend all hearings. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have been hurt while working, you should consult with a workplace injury attorney as soon as possible so they can ensure everything is filed in a timely manner. Most workers’ compensation lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you do not have to pay your attorney until you win your claim. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to get your claim on the right track before time runs out. Additional Resources Workers' Compensation Filing Process Why Should I Get a Workers’ Compensation Attorney?
