Work injuries are much more common than you think. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 3.0 million non-fatal work injuries were reported in 2013, resulting in an alarmingly high incidence rate of 3.3 cases per 100 full-time workers. . Although many of these accidents occurred in traditionally risky work environments (for example, construction sites, coal mines, and oil rigs), most were reported by employers in relatively safe environments.
What is workers’ compensation?
The good news is that most businesses are required to carry workers’ compensation, which is a type of insurance that provides coverage for work-related illnesses and injuries. The bad news is that there is no guarantee that you will be fully reimbursed for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering that you experience as a result of a work accident. With that in mind, here are five reasons why you might decide to contact a workers’ compensation attorney.
1. You can no longer work
Serious workplace accidents can result in a disability that prevents you from returning to work. Because insurance companies that provide workers’ compensation coverage are not in the habit of cutting large settlement checks unless absolutely necessary, you will need the services of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to handle the negotiations for you. . It is important to note that permanent disability agreements should last for you and your family for the remainder of what would have been your working years. Expert legal representation is needed to secure the largest settlement possible.
2. Your employer did not have insurance
Because workers’ compensation can be expensive, some unscrupulous employers do not apply for it. If you were injured at work and your boss tells you that he does not have insurance, he can sue you for damages. As an employee, you have the right to be reimbursed by your boss for your out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost wages due to the injury, as well as your pain and suffering.
3. Your employer denies your claim
Because insurance premiums get more expensive the more claims you file, employers are often reluctant to approve a claim unless they have to. An experienced attorney can make sure her boss understands the legal ramifications of denying a legitimate claim just because it could end up costing you more money for coverage.
4. There was negligence
Even if an accident caused the injury, gross negligence is grounds for a lawsuit. Whether the negligent party was your boss or another employee, you should explore your legal options with the help of an attorney.
5. You need Surgery
Again, insurance companies are often reluctant to approve surgeries unless deemed necessary. An experienced attorney can convince the insurer that your surgery is not only necessary, but also cost-effective.
If any of the above is true, you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible.