Workers compensation helps provide compensation to injured workers. This means you receive compensation for any wages lost and medical expenses. Workers compensation allows injured workers to recover from their injuries securely and prevents lawsuits for employers.
If you have a case with little complications and minor injuries, you likely won’t need a lawyer. But if your case is more extensive than you anticipated, you should find a workers comp lawyer.
The best time to find a workers comp lawyer is right after you’re injured. Even if you end up having a totally uncomplicated case and don’t need a lawyer, always ask an expert for legal advice before agreeing to anything.
Also Read: 8 Things To Do After You’re Injured At Work
Do I Need A Workers Comp Lawyer?
You may not always need the help of a workers comp lawyer. It’s completely possible for you to apply and receive workers comp without a lawyer. However, before you agree to anything, you should consult with a workers comp lawyer.
Many employers are understanding and will admit fault in many cases. In general, it’s unlikely you’ll need a workers comp lawyer if you:
- Only suffered minor injuries.
- Didn’t miss any work, or only lost a few hours of hours.
- Don’t have a pre-existing condition that complicates the claim.
However, things can get a little complicated if you need a significant settlement, or your employer is unfair.
Also Read: 7 Red Flags You Should Sue Your Bad Employer
When To Hire A Workers Comp Lawyer
If at any point you end up disputing with your employer, insurance company, or workers comp doctor, you should consult with a lawyer immediately. Call a lawyer right away if:
- Your employer denies your claims or won’t pay benefits right away.
- Your employer disputes your claims or requests a second IME.
- Your employer retaliates against you or harasses you.
- The settlement offer won’t cover all expenses.
- Your injuries prevent and limit your ability to work drastically.
- You need permanent disability or want to apply for social security.
- Your injuries were from a third-party’s negligence or your employer’s misconduct.
- You develop more symptoms or worsen overtime.
- You have a pre-existing condition.
- You’re accused of fraud.
This is why even if you do have an uncomplicated case, you should at least ask for legal advice from a workers comp lawyer. Your symptoms may change or worsen overtime, so even if your case starts uncomplicated, you can quickly be accused of fraud.
A workers comp lawyer negotiates with both your insurer and your employer to get you all the benefits you rightfully deserve. Whether your workers comp claim is state or privately funded, a workers comp lawyer helps you navigate and secure all the benefits you’re entitled to.
Also Read: What To Expect From Your Workers Comp Doctor
Why You Should Hire A Workers Comp Lawyer
Insurance companies don’t make money paying out claims. Employers also lose money from paying out injured workers, and will often push their employees to come back to work before they’re ready. It’s very common for insurance companies and employers to deny or find ways to minimize claims because they want to save money.
When claims are more complicated, you’ll likely have to start jumping through even more hoops like attending an independent medical exam and a workers compensation hearing. Both these things are vital for securing all the benefits you deserve, and require a skilled negotiator who can protect you and your rights.
Just because you were injured at work and need to take time off doesn’t mean you should lose money, or have to suffer any more from your injuries. If you want to ensure all your rights are protected, call a workers comp lawyer for advice today.
Also Read: Whistleblowers: 6 Workers Rights Everyone Should Know and 8 Questions To Ask An Employment Lawyer Before Hiring Them
