It’s important that you file a workers’ comp claim in the appropriate time frame in order to receive your benefits. This means that you need to know what your rights are if you’re injured on the job. The first place to start is to notify your employer of your injury. It becomes their responsibility to start the appropriate paperwork. Here are some of the reasons that you may need to seek out legal advice to have your claim covered.
Ability to Perform Depositions
As a part of your claim, there may need to be an investigation initiated. Your employer may be handling many aspects of this investigation. If you don’t feel as though the case is being handled correcting, hire a workers compensation attorney. They can perform the necessary depositions for your workers’ comp claim. This includes medical evaluations and gathering statements from those who observed the accident.
Arrange Settlement Details
It may be in your best interests to settle with your employer. This doesn’t mean that you can’t still go forward with your workers’ comp claim. In some instances, you can sue for a separate personal injury claim if there were egregious safety concerns at your workplace that resulted in your injury. Your attorney will be able to fight for the largest possible settlement in your situation.
Representation in Court
There are times when it becomes necessary to take your claim to court. You will definitely need representation if your company isn’t willing to negotiate with you outside of the courtroom. The point of your attorney is to make sure that your rights are represented to the best of their abilities. They will argue your case to the judge.
Help with Any Needed Disability Claims
Depending on the severity of the injury, you may be out of work for an extended period of time. This can result in financial hardship and even leave you permanently disabled. Getting assistance with your disability claim can help to get the process moving along. You don’t want your family to suffer because you aren’t able to go back into the workforce.
For the most part, your employer will do the right thing for you. This means that the majority of people don’t need to hire an attorney in order to file a workers’ comp claim. If you have the misfortune of not having your claim handled correctly, an attorney will be your best bet. Don’t wait to do the right thing for your family.
About the Author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her husky Snowball. You can find her on Twitter at @LizzieWeakley and on Facebook at facebook.com/lizzie.weakley.
