If you have suffered a workplace injury, it’s important that you seek the help of a workers comp lawyer as soon as possible. This will ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve, and avoid being subjected to retaliation by your employer.
Getting the most out of your benefits
If you are in the unfortunate position of being injured at work, workers compensation insurance is a great way to cover your medical bills and replace lost wages. However, it is crucial to follow the right steps to maximize your benefits. It is important to understand what your employer is required to provide, how to file a claim and whether you qualify for benefits.
In fact, you can’t afford to miss any of these steps. This could result in you losing your benefits. So, be sure to check out these 9 practical tips. Once you’ve followed the right steps, you can look forward to a healthier work life.
The most obvious and most important tip is to make sure you have the proper paperwork from your employer. Obtaining the right documentation could save you thousands of dollars.
You may also want to hire a lawyer. Although this is not required, it is certainly a good idea. These lawyers can explain the ins and outs of workers comp to you.
Avoiding employer retaliation
If you believe you have been retaliated against, you should speak to a workers compensation lawyer. This is an important step to taking because your rights are at stake. A qualified attorney can determine whether you have a valid claim and help you gather the evidence you need to prove your case.
Workplace retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for legally protected activity. These activities include filing a claim, reporting harassment, or trying to form a union.
If your employer takes any negative action, you should file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This agency holds employers accountable. They can investigate and take legal action if they are found to be retaliating.
Retaliation can include a denial of wages or benefits, slashed hours, or a detrimental shift change. It can also be a result of a hostile work environment, so it’s best to get in touch with a professional if you suspect you have been retaliated against.
Negotiating with the insurance company
Negotiating with the insurance company as a workers comp lawyer can be a tricky business. It is important to remember that each case is different and requires a unique approach. You should never sign a settlement offer without first consulting with a qualified attorney.
Having a solid understanding of the specifics of your case can help you avoid common pitfalls. This includes knowing what the best offer is and how to negotiate. Once you have a clear idea of what you are up against, you can start making your move.
A workers comp lawyer can also help you to see which of the offers you should accept. Many insurers will make an offer quickly. They do this to avoid future costs, such as medical bills. If you’re unprepared to negotiate with the insurance company, you could lose out on a decent payout.
It can take up to two years to negotiate a decent settlement. To save yourself the hassle, you might want to hire a workers comp lawyer as soon as you know you’ve been injured.
Appealing a denial
If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal it. However, you need to follow the correct procedures to do so. A qualified lawyer can help you understand the legal process and make the best case possible for your benefits.
The first step is to gather as much evidence as you can to support your claims. This can include medical records, time sheets, and reports of the accident. You can also bring other evidence, such as a second medical opinion, to the hearing.
If the Deputy Commissioner denies your claim, you may file a reconsideration. Depending on the state, you may have to submit your appeal directly to the administrative agency, or you can ask the insurer to do it on your behalf.
Once you receive a denial letter, you have 30 days to appeal. You can do this either through the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board (WCAB) or the Court of Appeals. Both will follow different procedures.