Why Should You Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
Following a work-related accident or a situation that leads to sickness (such as long-term exposure to chemicals), you might be entitled to worker’s compensation. Sometimes the process can quickly be completed without any hiccups along the way. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, and routinely injured or sick workers find themselves dealing with:
- Inadequate coverage
- Prolonged waiting periods
- Mountains of paperwork
- Employers or their insurance companies unwilling to help
Having a worker’s compensation lawyer on your side can make a huge difference. This blog will explore why you should hire a worker’s compensation today.
I Have a Good Relationship With My Employer. But, Do I Still Need Legal Help?
Ideally, every worker should have a good relationship with their employer. However, even when you have a good relationship with your employer, you may still need a lawyer on your side. For starters, an attorney can help determine whether or not you’re eligible for worker’s compensation. Knowing whether or not you’re eligible can be tricky, but an attorney can help ensure filing a claim is right for you.
Next, an attorney can help you with the necessary paperwork and legal requirements like:
- Proving your injury or sickness was work-related
- Reporting your injury to your employer by the suitable deadline
- Seeing an approved doctor
Furthermore, states can have complex requirements, and the law is updated routinely.
What Kinds of Compensation Are Available?
Another reason to hire an attorney is to ensure you receive the necessary benefits. Many forms of compensation and benefits might be available in a worker’s compensation claim. Some examples include:
- Medical benefits: Your employer or insurance company should pay for immediate medical expenses, including emergency room visits, prescriptions, and surgeries.
- Long-term care: Following an accident or prolonged sickness, you might require additional medical assistance. Medical help, like physical therapy, should continue to be covered.
- Lost wages: An injury or sickness typically means you’re unable to work or can’t work as much as before. Worker’s compensation can cover at least some of your lost wages.
- Disability benefits: An injury sometimes hinders your ability to work at your previous job. Disability benefits mean you can continue to get paid. It’s also possible for your employer to pay for vocational training so that you can pursue a different career if your injury renders you unable to perform.
- Funeral costs: Unfortunately, an injury or sickness can sometimes lead to death. Your employer should pay for funeral costs and death benefits when this occurs.
What Other Ways Can An Attorney Help?
There are many other ways an attorney can help. One reason why workers often seek out a worker’s compensation attorney is when their claim gets rejected. When this happens, a worker must file an appeal that offers unique challenges. Additionally, an attorney can help negotiate with insurance companies and apply legal pressure when necessary. It’s best to have New York workplace lawyers on your side that can help you navigate any challenging process. At Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C, we have a team of attorneys ready to assist.
