A nightmare that is common to many people is getting hurt on the job. It is no secret that if you find yourself in a position like that, it can present problems that no one wants to deal with. One of the biggest questions associated with a work-related injury is, of course, whether or not to consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer. Although it seems like hiring a lawyer might complicate matters even further, it is often the best course of action you can take. Before you decide to tackle the issue on your own, take a look at the many reasons why it is beneficial to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer if you are hurt on the job.
Your employer denies your claim
Often employers or their attorneys deny workers’ comp claims simply because they are confident the employee will not appeal the decision. But, you can hire a workers’ compensation lawyer and will not need to pay any upfront fees. Working with a qualified and experienced attorney is often your best defense to get the money you deserve if you are injured at work.
The settlement you are offered is too small
The goal of an employer is to save the business money anywhere it is possible. This often means offering an injured employee who has been injured at work less than is deserved. Your settlement amount should cover all of your medical bills and any lost wages you suffered because of the injury. Unfortunately, a judge will sign off on any settlement amount as long as it is not grossly unfair. So, the best way to ensure you can get everything you deserve is to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after your work-related injury.
Your medical issues have prevented you from returning to work
If your injury has caused you to become permanently disabled you may be able to receive weekly payments to make up for your loss of salary. Insurance companies often do not like to make this payment, as they can become quite costly over time. So, they will go to great lengths to avoid paying them. Hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney may be the best way to make sure you get the payments you deserve.
You receive disability benefits from Social Security
A workers’ comp attorney can help structure your settlement so Social Security does not take a large portion of it away from you.
Your boss retaliates against you
It is not unheard of that employers to retaliate against employees who file workers’ comp claims by firing them, reducing their hours, lowering their pay, or discriminating against them in some other way. If you have experienced this type of negative treatment after you file a workers comp claim, contact an attorney as soon as possible.
You have a claim that potentially involves a third party
Often, workers comp claims are complicated because a third party has caused the injury. For example, if you are out of the office on work-related business and get into a car accident that is not your fault, you can sue the other driver in a civil suit as well as receive workers comp benefits. Cases such as this can be complicated and it is best to work with a lawyer to get the best possible outcome.
If you have been injured in a work-related accident, contact Liner Legal today to see how we can help you.
