If you are injured at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, there is a chance that your application will be denied. In some cases, it is best to handle the appeal process with the help of an attorney. How do you know when it is time to consult with an attorney?
You Can’t Return to Work
The workers’ compensation system is designed to ensure that you receive a portion of your income while out of work. If you neither receive benefits nor go back to work, it may be impossible to pay bills or cover other expenses. An attorney may be able to use medical records or other evidence to show that you deserve benefits based on your current physical condition.
You Only Receive Partial Compensation
Under the workers’ compensation system, you are entitled to full coverage of medical bills and a portion of your salary while out of work. If you are asked to pay medical costs related to your workplace injury, an attorney may take steps to compel your employer to cover them instead. An attorney such as those from Gilbert, Blaszcyk & Milburn LLP could also make sure that you receive any lost wages that you are entitled to.
Hire an Attorney to Resolve Delays in Your Case
If your case is not resolved in a timely manner, it may be worth speaking with legal counsel. Your attorney could put pressure on your employer or the insurance company that denied the decision to hear your case faster. It could also increase the odds that you win your appeal as well. Furthermore, working with a legal professional may increase the odds that you obtain your payment in a timely manner as well.
Were You Retaliated Against?
While it is illegal for employers to retaliate against those who make a workers’ compensation claim, it does happen. Examples of retaliation include being fired, demoted or otherwise denied opportunities to advance at work. Your attorney may gather evidence of retaliation and use it to help obtain compensation or other relief as appropriate under the law.
An injury at work could have a significant impact on your life. In some cases, you may not be able to find employment for months or years because of pain caused by pinched nerves or a traumatic brain injury. However, working with an attorney may make it easier to get workers’ compensation and other benefits to help make ends meet when you’re out of work.
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.
