When you go to work, you never expect to suffer an injury. Even when you are in a trade where injuries are more frequent, like construction, you don’t intend to be the victim of workplace injuries.
But when that happens, what do you do? Your first step is to make sure you are healthy and your injuries are cared for by medical professionals. After that, it’s time to speak with a skilled and experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.
What is workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation is insurance coverage carried by your employer. This insurance covers lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs for employees who are injured on the job.
Workers’ compensation insurance is no fault which means that it does not matter who caused the injury, the benefit is owed to you if you were injured on the job. However, there are exceptions. If you intended to injure yourself or someone else and you suffered an injury because of your actions, then you would not be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. There are other exceptions and that’s why it’s important to speak with a lawyer today.
Do I let my employer know I was injured?
Yes. Part of the workers’ compensation claims process is to alert your employer of your injury. Most employers will provide you with a form to complete requesting detailed information about your injury and what cause the accident.
It’s important that you not delay. There are certain time restrictions that, if you miss the deadlines, it could bar your claim which means you would miss out on the important benefits to which you are entitled.
Workers’ compensation is a complex legal process. A law firm is ready to help guide you through the process so you do not miss any deadlines.
Is this my only recourse?
No. You can also file a personal injury claim to recover damages for your injuries. If your employer acted negligently, recklessly, or carelessly, you can bring a personal injury claim.
The right lawyer can help you determine if you have a valid personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ compensation claim. Just like with a workers’ compensation claim filing, there are deadlines so it’s important that you do not delay.
What if my claim is denied?
Workers’ compensation coverage is provided by an insurance company. And like most insurance companies, they prefer to keep money in their pockets instead of paying out your claim.
If you receive a denial of your claim, this usually happens because a doctor said your injury was not directly caused by your employer. This could include pre-existing conditions. This is where the process becomes even more complicated and if you have not yet hired a workers’ compensation attorney, now is the time to do so.
A lawyer can give you the peace of mind you deserve.
A lawyer can answer all of the questions above and the countless others you may have. Do not settle for a one size fits all solution. Experienced Glendale workers compensation lawyers can provide you with guidance and compassion throughout the complex workers’ compensation claim process. Contact a law firm today to get started.
Thanks to Hickey & Turim, SC for their insight into workers compensation and what you should know.