If you’ve had an accident at work, you may assume all you’ll have to do is file a workers’ compensation claim. And you can then receive appropriate assistance for your medical expenses and days missed from work, right? Unfortunately, the workers’ comp process isn’t always this simple. In fact, there are some very good reasons – five of which are discussed below – why it’s best to hire, or at the very least consult with, an attorney if you’re injured at work.
Determining Eligibility
Should you be unsure as to whether or not to submit a claim or if your claim is valid, a lawyer can give you an honest, impartial opinion. The eligibility process also involves determining if you meet the requirements for filing a workers’ comp claim. These typically include:
- Proving the accident occurred at work
- Reporting the incident within a reasonable period of time
- Seeing a doctor as soon as possible about your injuries or related pain
Helping You Seek the Right Benefits
It’s usually possible to collect medical benefits for an accident that occurred at work fairly quickly. What a lawyer can do beyond this point is let you know if you may be eligible for other benefits that could be part of workers’ comp payments, such as disability and vocational benefits. On a related note, an attorney can ensure you’re seeking sufficient benefits appropriate for your situation.
If you don’t opt for maximum benefits and your injuries are serious, for example, you may run out of benefits before being given the green light to return to work.
Dealing with Your Employer’s Insurance Provider
The act of filing a valid workers’ comp claim doesn’t automatically mean you’ll receive your benefits without any delays or issues. Oftentimes, employers have workers’ compensation insurance to handle claims filed by employees. If this is the case where you work, you’ll likely have to deal with your employer’s insurance provider at one time or another. What a lawyer can do is serve as the go-between, so you don’t unintentionally reduce your odds of receiving appropriate or full compensation. An attorney can also deal with insurance-related issues involving:
- Requests for additional documentation
- Questions about the nature of the incident or severity of the injuries
- Attempts to limit the extent of your benefits
- Unreasonable delays with payments
Handling Settlement Negotiations
If you have concerns about your employer’s insurance company cutting off benefits too soon, a lump-sum settlement may be in your best interest. You’ll have a better chance of negotiating a fair settlement if you believe this is the right step for you with assistance from an attorney experienced with this process. Plus, the insurance company will be more likely to take you seriously if a lawyer is representing you.
Filing an Appeal – If Necessary
Workers’ comp claims are sometimes unfairly denied. Should this happen to you, an attorney can guide you through the appeal process. Besides, going up against an insurance company’s legal team isn’t something you’ll want to do alone. You’ll also have better odds of overcoming a denial with an attorney on your side.
Find a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured on the job, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to learn more about what steps you should take next. You’ll also be able to receive thorough answers to any questions you may have so you can make confident decisions.
