Workplace injuries and illnesses affect 2.8 million people each year, which means 17 preventable injuries occur every two minutes. Slips and falls are one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. Repetitive stress injuries also affect many employees. Repetitive stress injuries can occur when people repeat similar motions multiple times daily. Workers can also be cut or struck by equipment while on the job.
In some cases, workers are also affected by toxins that can cause cancer or other illnesses. All of these occurrences count as workplace injuries. Injured workers or workers who become ill on the job may be eligible to pursue a workers’ compensation claim. If you believe you have a claim against your employer, use these steps to prepare your case.
What is a workers’ compensation claim?
Workers’ compensation insurance compensates employees if they are injured or become ill through their work. State laws require most businesses to carry workers’ compensation insurance, and even if it’s optional, it’s a good idea to have this insurance for your business. Workers’ compensation benefits cover the employee’s wages while they’re unable to work, and it also pays for medical expenses related to their illness or injury. In the United States, workplace injuries and illnesses cost $250 million per year. Workers’ compensation protects employers from paying these costs directly.
What if you receive an unfair offer?
You may receive a settlement offer from workers’ compensation. However, if you don’t believe the settlement offer is fair, you aren’t obligated to accept it. You can opt to take legal steps to argue for a higher settlement, but bear in min that you aren’t guaranteed any amount of workers’ compensation if you reject the offer. The legal decision on your workers’ compensation case may award you less money than you were initially offered.
Do you need an attorney?
Lawyers have legal specialties, so if you’re fighting a workers’ compensation case it’s crucial to find an attorney who specializes in cases that have to do with job injury and personal injury claims. To do this, Google worker compensation lawyers in North Carolina” (or wherever you live) to locate workers’ compensation attorneys in your area. Lawyers who specialize in this law field are familiar with all relevant laws that apply to workers’ compensation cases. They also know what information you need to support your claims in court. A workers’ compensation attorney can efficiently prepare your case and draw from their experience to ensure you get the best settlement possible on your comp claim.
Workers’ compensation attorneys offer a free consultation, which means you can meet with an attorney without assuming any financial risk. Some law firms may take your case in exchange for a portion of your settlement, which means you only owe fees if you win your case. Lawyers who specialize in workers’ compensation and personal injury cases are also familiar with all benefits you may be eligible to receive.
Do you need to receive medical treatment?
A medical professional is qualified to evaluate your condition and provide a formal diagnosis. They can order medical tests, refer you to specialists, and develop a treatment plan for your condition, whether it’s carpal tunnel syndrome, a broken leg, or any other personal injury incurred during a work-related accident. Your medical records will be crucial when you’re pursuing compensation because they can verify the nature of your injuries or illness, your long-term prognosis, the cost of the treatment you require, and the cause of your condition. Your medical records can be used in court to support your workers’ compensation case.
What do you need for court?
Before court, you will need to explain your case to your personal injury lawyer. Document all relevant information about your accident or illness. With documentation, you will be able to review your notes and refresh your memory about critical details before your court date.
Make notes about any witnesses or other employees who were injured at work. You can provide this information to your attorney, who may opt to question these witnesses in court.
Carefully review all material that will be presented in court. Make sure all of your documentation is accurate. Lawyers and other legal experts are experienced with spotting fake pay stubs, and presenting erroneous information in court can compromise your case.
