Workplace Injury

Employees who suffer from work-related injuries may be unable to file a personal injury claim. However, a workplace injury case may give them the opportunity to receive the worker’s compensation benefits they need to recover and rehabilitate. Unlike a personal injury case, making a worker’s comp claim does not involve suing the employer. In fact, it is in place to avoid personal lawsuits that can lead to lengthy and stressful litigation.

There are a number of different causes that can lead to workplace injuries, including poor safety training, repetitive motion, co-worker conduct, chronic exposure to harmful chemicals, vehicle accidents on the job, handling of hazardous materials, and defective equipment. Each of these common causes may result in missed work, lost wages, and loss of health insurance and matching pension contribution benefits.

To avoid a delay or denial of benefits, employees must be sure to make a report of the injury at their workplace and follow up with their employer and/or the insurance carrier. The employer should inform them of the process involved and provide details about the insurance provider. Employees must beware if their employer acts suspiciously or causes them to be concerned that their job is at risk, as terminating a worker for filing a claim is unlawful in many states.

Individuals who have been hurt while on the job must submit the necessary documentation and forms to the worker’s compensation board immediately after the accident to stay within the statute of limitations, which is the time from when the accident occurred to the date of filing. There is a broad variance on the statute to file a claim, which depends on the state and nature of the injury. If an injured worker needs additional support or guidance through the process, they can speak with a qualified attorney who can inform them of their rights and advise them of the best course of action.

Experienced workers comp attorneys can also help injured employees receive the reward to which they are entitled, and avoid the drawbacks of settling a claim without a hearing. The workers comp laws and procedures are complex, which increases the likelihood of denials, delays, and terminated claims. Knowing which damages an individual is eligible for can be challenging as well, such as lost wages, reduced quality of life, permanent disability, travel expenses, medical bills, and future loss of wages. A lawyer knows how to properly navigate the system, however, and can let individuals know the procedure for getting paid for out-of-pocket expenses in a timely manner, like keeping receipts and tracking mileage.