Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be stressful when you are worried about unexpected delays or being denied. Some injured employees can settle their claims with little or no resistance. Unfortunately, others confront some challenges.
While most employers want to protect their workers from injury and illness, others try to cut corners. When a workplace accident happens, it is always possible that the company will attempt to deflect responsibility or even blame the victim. It is worth seeking legal representation for yourself if you want your workers’ comp claim to result in a fair settlement.
What Can Workers’ Comp Defense Lawyers Do for Their Clients?
Workers’ compensation defense lawyers assist employees with various injuries, including but not limited to
- Illnesses from chemical exposures
- Electrocutions
- Fractures
- Hearing loss or damage
- Muscular injuries like back, shoulder, or neck pain
- Spinal cord injuries
- Struck-by injuries
- Traumatic head and brain injuries
To receive payment for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, an employee with an attorney is more likely to resolve their case with fewer delays or legal snags.
For instance, your lawyer will help you quickly complete and file the paperwork. Your attorney will also remind you to include the most important information, such as where and when the accident occurred, what caused it, and if there were any witnesses. You will also get assistance in gathering and making sense of all the required medical documentation.
While you wait for your claim to resolve, you might still need medical attention. Your workers’ comp attorney will help you get the treatment you need and ensure that your provider has Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) approval.
Experienced workers’ comp attorneys are skilled at negotiating a fair compensation package to help you recoup your losses and get back to work as soon as possible. Negotiating claims can be intimidating for many workers to handle alone. Your lawyer can speak on your behalf and interact with medical staff and insurance personnel so that you do not have to.
Unless you are a workers’ comp attorney, there are parts of the claims process you might find cumbersome and confusing. Your lawyer’s job is to answer your questions and help you understand what is going on during each step. An attorney who has your back will work hard to prevent any misunderstandings or confusion from slowing down the process.
Your Worker’s Comp Attorney Will Also Assist You During the Appeal Process
Hiring a lawyer to help you navigate the workers’ comp process will hopefully prevent the denial of your claim. Nevertheless, rejection can occur for several reasons, such as determining that your injury was a pre-existing condition or that it did not happen within the scope of your employment. A skilled attorney will anticipate these and other assertions and help you gather documentation to dispute them.
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, your lawyer can work with you to appeal the decision. Your attorney will continue communicating with insurance and other parties on your behalf. They will also help you understand the appeals process and help you gather the information that can strengthen your claim.
Getting Legal Representation for a Workers’ Compensation Claim
You should not always assume your employer has your best interests at heart or that they will put your needs above those of the company. Therefore, hiring a workers’ comp lawyer can even the playing field.
Even if your workers’ comp claim seems straightforward, it is always a good idea to seek the help of an experienced attorney. Legal representation ensures you do not overlook crucial steps in the process. Furthermore, if your claim gets denied, your workers’ comp attorney will protect your rights and help you during your appeal.