Workers’ compensation is an employee’s peace of mind that the employer has tried to provide a safe and secure work environment. When that security is shattered, and you are injured on the job it may take the services of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to help get you the benefits you deserve.
Worker’s compensation sounds like it should be simple and straightforward. Unfortunately, it can be anything but that. Partnering with a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the turbulent waters of the legal process as you pursue justice for your on the job injuries. While it can be difficult to know what the next right step is, there are some signs you need to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Here’s what you should look for to know when it’s time.
Your Employer Isn’t in Any Hurry to File Your Claim
When you’ve sustained serious injuries at work due to no fault of your own, your employer must follow a predetermined process to file your worker’s compensation claim. If they drag their feet and refuse to file your claim in a timely manner, it may be time to consult a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Any delay in filing the claim is unacceptable and it only delays your payment in the end. Employers know that their worker’s compensation rates are based, at least in part, on their claims history. Sometimes this can influence how quickly your employer files your claim or how they handle the process altogether.
Your Employer Denies Your Claim
If your employer automatically denies your claim, then it may be time to call a workers’ compensation attorney. If you were injured on the job, then you have a right to financial aid through the worker’s compensation program. You are entitled to the cost of medical coverage plus at least a portion of the income lost due to your injuries. Employers often deny claims in hopes of saving money but a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer can get you the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries.
You’re Injury Led to a Disability
If you were injured on the job and it led to a partial or total disability, then you may need to seek the counsel of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. When your injuries lead to a disability, it’s virtually impossible to recover the total cost of medical bills and lost wages without the help of a good attorney. You may be entitled to lifetime benefits and a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer can fight for your rights to receive those benefits.
Your Injury Was Due to Faulty Equipment
If you were injured at work due to defective equipment, then you should call a workers’ compensation lawyer. Of course, you’re entitled to worker’s compensation benefits but you may be able to hold the manufacturer responsible as well with a third-party suit. The best workers’ compensation lawyer can help you hold the manufacturer responsible for the injuries you sustained along with pain and suffering. You should recover damages along with the financial compensation to cover your medical costs and lost wages due to your injury.
Payment for Your Injuries Doesn’t Cover Medical Bills and Lost Wages
If you receive a settlement offer from worker’s compensation which does not cover your medical expenses and lost wages, then you should call a workers’ compensation lawyer. Insurance companies will save money wherever they can and worker’s compensation judges typically approve the settlement offers. Unfortunately, this can sometimes happen at your expense. Don’t settle for an offer that is less than what you deserve.
Partner with a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you’ve been injured on the job, it can often be wise to seek the counsel of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. They will fight for your rights to receive fair compensation for your injuries. The financial compensation you receive should be enough to cover your medical expenses and lost wages due to the injury you sustained at work. Don’t settle for less than what you’re due, call a workers’ compensation lawyer today.