Employers are required by law to carry workers compensation insurance to protect their employees. This type of insurance policy pays for lost wages, medical care, and additional things when an employee is injured on the job. In many cases, filing a workers compensation claim is a simple process and an employee can do so on their own without issues. However, there are situations where workers compensation cases can become complicated—if this happens to you, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced workers compensation attorney to assist you. Some common reasons to hire a workers compensation attorney include the following:
The Insurance Company Denies Your Claim
It can be extremely frustrating to file a workers compensation claim after being injured at work only to have it denied. If this happens to you, first try contacting the insurance company to see if the denial was made in error. In the event that the denial was not an error, your best bet is to hire an attorney. An experienced workers compensation attorney will understand the laws and will be able to communicate on your behalf to find out why the claim was denied. You can also count on your attorney to take the case further, if needed, to ensure that you receive the benefits that you are entitled to.
You Have Difficulty Getting the Medical Care that You Need
When you're injured at work, your employer's workers compensation insurance company should be responsible for the cost of all of your medical care—do not use your own health insurance. However, some people have difficulty getting treatment, surgeries, and expensive medication approved by the insurance company. When your treating physician has prescribed a course of treatment or highly recommended surgery but the insurance company refuses to pay for it, it is time to get an attorney involved. Your attorney will fight for your right to receive the medical care that you need and help ensure that the insurance company pays the bills.
You May Be Permanently Disabled
A lot of workplace injuries are minor, but many employees suffer from incredibly serious and life-changing workplace injuries that can leave them permanently disabled. A permanent disability due to a workplace injury involves more than just paying medical bills and compensating for a temporary loss of wages. If you will never be able to work full-time again due to your workplace injury, you need to hire an attorney immediately. A workers compensation attorney will make sure that you receive a settlement that will ensure that you receive a financial compensation that will provide for you during all of the years that you are unable to work due to your workplace injury.
For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Neifert Byrne & Ozga.