Injured due to a work-related incident or have new or worsening symptoms due to working conditions or duties? Workers’ Compensation benefits were set up to theoretically facilitate money and medical benefits for an injured worker, unfortunately, many factors can complicate the process for you as an injured worker dealing with it on a day-to-day basis. An employer or insurance company could be delaying your workers’ compensation benefits or have outright denied your claim, hiring a workers’ compensation attorney can help make the claim process easier to navigate.

Employees and employers alike don’t realize that work-related injuries can often cause permanent disabilities. If you ever get injured at work, it’s important to undergo a thorough medical check-up and notify your onsite manager by opening up a claim or report as quickly as possible. Without an attorney, employers and insurance companies alike might pressure you into accepting to settle for the least amount of money, and/or threatening you with retaliation or accusing you of fraud.

To avoid being pushed into such situations, hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney will have someone fighting in your corner who will make sure to recover any lost wages and make sure that you are receiving the medical care and any other benefits that you may be legally entitled to.

Here are the top five reasons you need a work injury lawyer fighting alongside you for your claim.

1. Hiring a Lawyer Will Strengthen Your Case

Filing a claim for workers’ compensation can be a little complicated, especially if you have a preexisting condition, your symptoms developed over time, or if the company doctor has already cleared you. Combined with a few others, these factors may make you ineligible to apply for workers’ compensation benefits. If that happens, filing a claim against your employer will not be a good idea.

To make sure you have a strong case, you will have to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. Since lawyers know and understand the law the best, they will determine if you are eligible for compensation. In addition, they will connect you to approved doctors for medical examinations and help you meet all of the state requirements before filing a claim. Your lawyer will further strengthen your case to make sure you can secure the benefits you deserve.

2. They Will Help You Seek the Right Benefits

Apart from lost wages and medical coverage, your workplace injury may entitle you to receive disability or job displacement benefits as well. Unfortunately, most employees are not aware of their right to seek such compensations. However, if you hire a workers’ compensation attorney, they will examine your case and tell you exactly what benefits you may be able to collect.

Additionally, a lawyer will make sure you don’t settle for lesser money or leave any benefits on the table. Since they are well-aware of the state laws, they also know exactly how much compensation you should receive from your employer and insurance company – which takes us to our next point.

3. Experienced Lawyers Know How to Deal With Insurance Companies

Dealing with workers’ compensation insurance requires time, patience, and of course, a sound understanding of legal matters.

Once you have filed a compensation claim, you may have to deal with a new variety of challenges, courtesy of your employer’s insurance company. However, a workers’ compensation lawyer would know precisely how to deal with them on your behalf. If your lawyer believes the insurance company will not consider your settlement demand or try to terminate your benefits too soon, they will help you take a stand and ensure you receive your dues.

Usually, negotiating a lump-sum settlement can help prevent any future problems. Though going up against the insurance company without any legal assistance may backfire. Therefore, consider working with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney who will help you take the next step without any setbacks.

4. Your Employer Would Be Less Likely to Retaliate

Fear of retaliation is one of the main reasons injured employees are hesitant to file claims against their employers.

Suppose you get hurt at your workplace or gradually develop a condition due to your work environment, but your employer indicates that filing a claim against the company may result in suspension or termination. If something like that happens, you will probably be under a lot more stress than before.

Hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer will prevent your employer and the insurance company from threatening you to a great extent. If you choose to have an attorney represent you, your boss will most likely take your claim seriously and treat you with the respect you deserve. Having an attorney will also protect you from harassment, demotions, delayed wages, and general bad behavior, which will enable you to focus on your case instead of being fearful of the consequences.

5. A Lawyer Will Help You File an Appeal

What happens if the workers’ compensation insurers deny your claim?

While it may be disappointing, it is certainly not the end of the road for you. You can still fight for your right by filing an appeal to dispute the denial. If you believe your claim was legitimate, your lawyer can re-examine all the documents, medical reports, and other paperwork to ensure you can appeal the decision before the state deadline is up. They will also thoroughly read the denial letter to build a stronger case for you.

Even in cases where the benefits don’t cover the injured employee’s medical bills and lost wages, a workers’ compensation lawyer can guide them towards other legal remedies and obtain the paperwork required to secure a better settlement.

Are You Looking for a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in California?

If you live in California and believe your workplace has caused your injury or disability, please make sure to visit a doctor as soon as possible. The state law provides workers with many rights, which means it is your responsibility to obtain the maximum workers’ compensation benefits. Doing so will also help you focus on healing.

Please feel free to get in touch with the experienced workers’ compensation lawyers at Savin Bursk Law for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 for emergencies. Moreover, you won’t have to pay us anything until we win your case.