Workers' Compensation: 3 Situations That Warrant A Lawyer's Help
If you have recently suffered an injury at work, you may be curious as to whether you need to hire an attorney experienced with workers' compensation. The answer will vary depending on your individual situation. In many cases, you will not need an attorney. For example, if your injury is not severe and you are not having any issues with your case or your employer, a lawyer is not necessary, though it may be a good idea to speak to one. However, sometimes situations can arise that increase the complexity of your case and warrant the need to hire an attorney. For instance, if you find yourself in the following situations, you should contact a workers' compensation attorney immediately:
1. Your Claim Is Denied by Your Employer.
Believe it or not, it is not uncommon for genuine workers' comp claims to be rejected by employers and/or workers' compensation insurers. One of the reasons for this is because there are so many workers that are denied that won't step up and appeal their denials.
2. The Settlement Offer from Your Employer Doesn't Cover Everything.
When you receive your settlement offer from your employer, you notice that it isn't going to cover everything – your medical bills, lost wages, etc. While the settlement got the judge's stamp of approval, it doesn't mean that it is 100 percent fair for you and your situation. It simply means that it is not wholly unfair, which is ultimately the judge's duty.
3. Your Medical Issues Are Keeping You from Returning to Work.
When you were injured on-the-job, the injuries that you sustained resulted in permanent partial or total disability. As a result, you could be entitled to a single lump sum or weekly payments for the rest of your life to make up for the income you will be losing out on. Because this can be expensive for insurance companies, they will try to get out of paying you the full amount of what you deserve.
Hiring a Workers' Compensation Attorney
The great thing about hiring an attorney who specializes in workers' comp is that they generally do not charge a fee up front. Instead, they will simply take their fee out of your settlement should you receive one. This provides you the best possible chance at receiving a full and fair settlement for the injuries that you sustained while on-the-job. Take the time to sit down with an attorney who offers workers compensation services to discuss the facts of your case and see what he or she can do for you.
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