When To Hire A Worker's Compensation Lawyer

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Many worker's compensation claims are simpler than personal injury claims and do not necessarily require lawyers. Although a lawyer can help with any worker's compensation claim, some require legal help. Below are examples of cases that require lawyers.

Serious Injuries

Serious injuries require a lawyer's involvement for several reasons. For example, serious injuries:

  • Mean that your compensation should be high
  • Might complicate your return to work
  • Might leave you with permanent injuries

Examples of serious injuries are:

  • Injuries that lead to loss of limbs
  • Extensive head injuries
  • Injuries that trigger hearing loss or blindness

For such injuries, get a lawyer from the beginning of the case and leave nothing to chance.

Case Complications

Consult a lawyer if your worker's compensation claim seems complicated. For example, consult a lawyer if you had preexisting injuries before your accident. In such a case, you must prove that you suffered additional injuries beyond the preexisting ones. Otherwise, you might not get the compensation you deserve.

Another example is a claim where worker's compensation insurance or your employer alleges that you were intoxicated or caused your injuries by acting irresponsibly. You must prove your lack of contribution to your accident before you can get compensation for such injuries. A lawyer can help you with the proof.

Claim Denial

You should also consult a lawyer if you initiate a claim alone and get a denial. The lawyer will review your accident and claim and help you appeal. Maybe you didn't provide some relevant paperwork or didn't get timely treatment for your injuries. Whatever the cause of the denial, an appeal without a professional's input might get the same result.

Employer Retaliation

Worker's compensation laws prohibit employers from retaliating against employees who file worker's compensation claims. Unfortunately, some employers think they can retaliate and get away with it. For example, your employer might demote, fire, or transfer you to a dangerous work area. Fighting such a case without legal help is difficult; consult a lawyer for help.

Return-to-work Issues

Your worker's compensation benefits stop when you resume work. However, your employer might force you to return to work before your injuries heal. Return-to-work issues are complex and require a lawyer's help. For example, you must prove that you have not healed and cannot work with or without restrictions.

However, you should strongly consider legal help if your case falls under the above categories. Hopefully, the lawyer will help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact a worker's compensation lawyer to learn more. 

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