Five states currently have state disability plans. In all states except Texas, most employers are required to provide some type of disability insurance to workers.
Yet what happens when your disability insurance is not enough? You may be confused by all of the paperwork required for you to get the money you need to pay your medical bills and provide for your family while you are on leave. Or you may not even have any idea what you are entitled to.
In situations like this, it is a wise idea to get in touch with a workers compensation lawyer. They can give you a reasonable idea of how you can get the best outcome for your case.
Here are some other benefits they can provide.
1. Do You Have Minor Injuries?
If you have sustained a minor injury at work, you may be able to handle a claim yourself. Examples include a twisted ankle or a cut requiring a few stitches.
If your employer admits that the accident happened at work, or if you missed relatively little time on the job, you can probably manage the paperwork. You should also be sure that you do not have any pre-existing conditions in the area where you have sustained an injury.
You may still, however, be able to request a free consultation with a work injury lawyer. They can give you an honest appraisal of whether or not you can handle the case on your own, or if it would be in your best interest to enlist the help of a professional.
A workers comp attorney can help you notify your employer of the incident, and get all of the medical proof you need to maximize your compensation. They can also help you negotiate with insurance representatives to cover future medical costs. A work injury lawyer can advise you on the best means for requesting and receiving benefits.
Falls, heavy lifting injuries, repetitive strain injuries, vehicle accident injuries, and injuries caused by equipment malfunctions may all require you to request the help of an attorney.
2. Has Your Claim Been Denied?
Employers will sometimes deny claims, assuming that injured employees will not take further action. Oftentimes, they are right, as workers do not feel they have a right to compensation.
The right lawyer can help you appeal your claim. You can go to a doctor you trust, or get reevaluated by your own doctor if you need to be. You can get compensation from your employer or another company who has acted inappropriately or exposed you to dangerous situations or substances.
Lawyers can interview witnesses and file with the court so you don’t have to. They will also deal with the medical, legal, and insurance systems so you can focus on your health and your family.
3. Have You Lost Wages Due To An Injury?
All of the wages you lost while you were recovering from your injury may not necessarily be compensated with insurance. You could get weekly payments or a larger lump sum, especially if you are permanently disabled.
Worker’s comp judges often sign off on settlements because they are not grossly unfair. You may, however, be able to receive a greater sum of money due to valuable time missed on the job. If medical issues keep you from work, it may be time to contact a workers compensation lawyer.
An attorney can also help you to avoid getting pushed back into work before you are ready. You do not want your injury to become compounded because you were forced to get back to work while you were still injured.
4. Has Your Employer Tried To Retaliate?
Occasionally, an employer will retaliate against an employee who files a workers comp claim. This could take the form of slashed hours, demotions, or firing.
This kind of action against injured employees is illegal. If your employer has retaliated against you for filing a claim, you need to contact a workers compensation lawyer.
5. Have You Lost Social Security Benefits?
You may not realize it, but getting workers comp benefits can actually lower the amount of social security disability payments you receive.
A workers compensation lawyer can help you to structure your claim to help you maximize payments from both insurance and social security.
6. Was Your Injury The Result of Misconduct?
If your injury has resulted from misconduct by your employer or a third party, you should enlist the help of a lawyer.
If your employer doesn’t have workman’s comp insurance, you will need an attorney to help you get the money you need to pay your medical bills and get compensated for necessary time off.
If your employer contributed to your injury or intentionally caused it, you need to speak to an attorney. They can explain how the law applies to your situation, and how you can go about getting the funds you need.
7. Do You Need Help With Negotiation?
Insurance companies have lawyers working on their side, and you should have them too. They can help you gather the right evidence to support your claim, and assist you in negotiating with your insurance company.
A lawyer can help you draft a settlement agreement to negotiate effectively with insurance companies. They can help you create a plan for receiving funds and avoid unanticipated consequences.
Is It Time To Hire a Workers Compensation Lawyer?
If your injury was the result of neglect or misconduct, or if your claim has been denied, it may be time to call a workers compensation lawyer. They can manage paperwork and structure your settlement so you can concentrate on getting the help you need.
For more information, contact us today.
