Do I Need a Worker’s Compensation Lawyer?

Whether you should hire a lawyer depends on the severity of your injury, and the overall complexity of your case. You may need to hire an attorney if:

•          Your injury was minor, such as a twisted ankle or a cut requiring a few stitches.
•          You missed little or no work due to your injury.
•          Your employer admits that the injury happened at work.

However, it is always good to contact a workers’ compensation attorney to help you through the legal process.

When should I hire a lawyer?

You should hire a workers’ compensation lawyer when:

Your employer denies your claim, or you fail to receive your benefits

Many employers and insurers deny workers’ compensation claims thinking that many workers will fail to appeal. This is factually correct because up to 80% of individuals whose claims are denied fail to appeal the decision in court. If you hire an attorney,he/she can help you receive a fair settlement for your injuries.

Your employer retaliates against you for filing a worker’s compensation claim

Hire an attorney if you have been fired or demoted, or if your employer has reduced your pay or engaged in any other form of discrimination because you filed a workers’ compensation claim.

Your employer’s settlement offer does not cover all lost wages or medical bills

If you think that your settlement offer does not cover all lost wages or medical bills, hire an attorney. He/she can help you get fairly compensated.

Your employer denies you disability benefits

If the injury caused you permanent partial disability or permanent total disability, you may be entitled to lifetime weekly payments to make up for your lost wages. However, if your employer denies you disability benefits, you should hire a workers’ compensation attorney.

You have a potential third party claim

If you have suffered a work-related injury due to negligence of a third party, you may be able to file a third party lawsuit. A lawyer can assist you in filing a third party lawsuit.