Most workers that are injured because of their job have a smooth experience. They file a claim and are paid for their medical expenses. If they must stay home for a while, they are paid a disability salary. Some workers are not that fortunate. Some common claim problems are listed below. Any one of them might mean you need the help of a personal injury lawyer. Read on and learn more.
Your Employer is Holding Things Up
You might not expect your employer to be the one making your claim more difficult. Unfortunately, workers' compensation insurance is costly to employers. They must pay high premiums and there is always a chance that a claim could increase those premiums. They may be hoping that you can come back to work without having to file a claim. However, you have a right to use workers' compensation benefits regardless of your employer's attitude. Follow up with your employer and consider contacting your workers' compensation board to file a complaint if your employer is being uncooperative. If that doesn't work, a letter from your workers' compensation lawyer might encourage them to follow the rules.
Your Claim is Denied
You can be denied benefits for various reasons and some of them are unjust. Many common reasons provided by the insurer have to do with minor issues that can be corrected. However, if the insurer has denied your workers' comp claim for any of the below more serious reasons, speak to a lawyer if:
- Your injury did not occur at work.
- Your injury was the result of a preexisting condition.
- Your injury was the result of horseplay at work.
- You tested positive for a drug or alcohol at the time of the accident.
You Have Problems with Your Medical Care
You may be assigned to a workers' comp doctor that is not doing their job properly. That can lead to some serious medical issues. Don't wait to act upon this issue because your health could be at risk. If you have been ordered to return to your job and you are not healed, do not go back to work. Contact a workers' compensation lawyer and find out what your rights are. You have a right to a second opinion and to change doctors, in most cases.
You are Being Offered a Settlement
Settlements are lump sum payments to workers dealing with a permanent or long-term injury. However, many workers are not offered a fair amount. You will need a lawyer who understands what you are owed to communicate with the insurer and negotiate for a fair settlement. You might not be able to work for a very long time, so you need enough money to cover yourself and your family.
Speak to a workers' compensation lawyer to find out more.
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