Every year, millions of workplace injuries happen. Many of these injuries are preventable and are due to lack of training, lack of proper safety equipment, and unsafe work conditions. If you are hurt on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ comp.
Workers’ comp insurance is something that companies must have to pay for their employees’ medical expenses and lost wages if they get injured at work. However, sometimes claims are denied, and you need legal representation from someone with an in-depth knowledge of Townsville business law to help you get the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured at work and are unsure how to proceed, read on to learn more about how to answer “do I need a workers’ comp lawyer?”
1. Your Claim May Be Denied
If your claim is denied, you definitely need a workers’ comp lawyer. Reasons why your claim may be denied include:
- You didn’t report your injury immediately
- You didn’t file a claim within the time limits (each state stipulates how long you have to file your claim)
- No one witnessed your injury
- The insurance company says your injury was not work-related
- You refuse to cooperate with the insurance company
If you believe that you have a valid workers’ comp claim but it is denied, you may appeal it. This is a situation where you would want to hire a workers’ comp lawyer who understands the ins and outs of workers’ comp laws.
2. Preexisting Condition Are Tricky
If you have a preexisting condition that involves the same body part where you were injured at work, your claim may be denied. The insurance company may try to blame your injury on your condition and say that it was not caused by something that is work-related.
If this is the case, you need a lawyer who understands how to build an appeal and demonstrate that your injury was not caused by your preexisting condition, but by workplace conditions.
3. You May Suffer a Permanent Disability
There is a possibility that your injuries are severe enough to prevent you from ever returning to your job or any other job. If that is the case, you might be entitled to regular payments to compensate you for your lost wages. Insurance companies do not want to pay out these settlements, so they often try to deny your claim.
4. The Insurance Company May Refuse to Settle
The insurance company will likely try to get you to settle for as little as possible. If they repeatedly refuse to settle or won’t give you an amount that is fair, you may need to have a hearing. This is almost like a trial, so you will want a law firm like First Coast Accident Lawyers to represent you.
Do I Need a Workers’ Comp Lawyer? It Depends
If you are still wondering “do I need a workers’ comp lawyer, you may need to speak to an attorney to determine if you have a case. An experienced lawyer will be able to guide you and advise on whether you should hire legal counsel to represent you.
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