Workers’ compensation is different from health and disability insurance. While you are merited some protection in the event that an accident does occur at work, it is not an actual contractual agreement. Every year, there are millions of workers that apply across the nation for workers’ compensation, but many are denied a fair compensation.
This is where having legal aid can give you an advantage. To your employer and the insurance company, your best interests are not their priority. The insurance company is worried about keeping the cost of the claim for your case low, which means that they can be in conflict with giving you a fair compensation. If any of the following apply to your workers’ compensation case, then it would be well worth it to seek assistance from an experienced attorney:
- Your employer denies your claim. Many employers and workers’ comp insurers make the assumption that employers will not appeal—which is, in fact, the case about 80% of the time.
- You do not receive your benefits promptly. Again, employers and insurers often assume that employees will not appeal.
- Your compensation does not cover all of your lost wages or medical bills. An attorney will offer fairer judgment than a workers’ compensation judge will on whether or not your coverage is sufficient.
- Your injuries or illness prevent you from returning to your job, or from working at all. In this case, you could be entitled to lifetime weekly payments to make up for lost wages. This is expensive to insurance companies, so you almost always need an attorney to navigate the process of receiving coverage without being denied by the insurance company.
- You experience discrimination at work after filing a workers’ comp claim. An employer should never fire, demote, cut hours, or reduce pay as a form of retaliation after an employee files for workers’ compensation.
- A third party might be involved in your claim. If you were struck by a motorist while making deliveries on behalf of your employer, for example, you can file a civil suit against the motorist—in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits.
When in doubt, it is best to consult a workers’ compensation attorney when you think you have a workers’ compensation case on your hands. As workers’ compensation attorneys, we are familiar with the state laws, as well as with the processes involved. We have a knowledge of the forms required for medical reimbursement. If your case is denied, we know how to appeal your case. In the end, your case can be time consuming and stressful. With the help of a workers’ compensation attorney, your claim can be successful and go through the legal system with less stress and worry on your part.