Instances a Workers Compensation Lawyer Can Help
Work-related injuries can have adverse effects on your life. Besides prohibiting you from handling your duties and responsibilities, you will have to seek treatment and focus on your recovery. This means you will pay for medical expenses and day-to-day expenses for a while without getting salary or wages.
But, you may consider filing for compensation to avoid struggling financially if you are eligible. So, how do workers compensation lawyers help with these cases? Here are instances when you should consider getting a lawyer.
The Filling Process Is Overwhelming
Understanding the process of filing a workers compensation claim isn't easy. You have to learn the legal jargon, understand the procedure, fill in the forms, attach the necessary documents, and submit them on time. If you make a mistake or get confused, your claim can get denied.
A workers compensation lawyer understands the law and will be in a better position to handle the filing process. After all, they have dealt with hundreds of similar cases, so they understand the ins and outs of the system. They will guide you and even show up for the court hearing if one is scheduled.
The Employer Has Retaliated Against the Claim or Won't Pay
If you got injured at work and informed your management on time, you expect to get all the support you need. In some cases, however, the employer may choose to retaliate against you after you file a claim. They may demote you, reduce your work hours, or terminate your contract indefinitely. Fighting all these injustices on your own will be difficult, so you will want the help of workers compensation lawyers to fight for your rights.
Sometimes employers also decide not to compensate their workers for job-related injuries or pay for some injuries and neglect the rest. If your employer refuses to pay, you'll need a lawyer to sort the issues out.
You Had a Pre-Existing Condition
Pre-existing conditions tend to complicate workers compensation claim processes. The medical insurance companies, your employer, and the court may think that the existing condition caused or worsened the injuries, which will reduce your claim value.
Navigating such complexities on your own will be difficult, and that's why you need a lawyer to guide you. They will check all your medical condition details and use their skill set to give evidence that proves that your initial condition isn't related to the new injuries. This will increase your chances of getting the compensation, unlike when you handle the challenges independently.