If you suffered an injury at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, before you can receive any payments, you have to file a workers’ compensation claim, which can be complicated. That’s why you should consider hiring an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to assist you.
Here are a few benefits of working with a lawyer.
A Lawyer Has Experience Negotiating with Insurance Companies
If you want to receive benefits for your work injury, you will have to deal with your employer’s insurance company at some point. Insurance companies care about the bottom line first and may use tactics to devalue your claim. This one reason why you should work with a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer. A lawyer has dealt with many insurance companies in the past and knows how much money you’re actually entitled to.
A Lawyer Can Help You File an Appeal
Believe it or not, many initial workers’ compensation claims get denied for one reason or another. For example, if you have a pre-existing condition, your employer may argue that the condition is what worsened your injury. If your initial claim got denied, it does not mean you have to lose all hope. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you file an appeal. He or she knows what it takes to strengthen a claim and may be able to get your claim approved the second time around.
A Lawyer Can Help You File a Third-Party Claim
If someone besides your employer has contributed to your injury, you may be able to file a third-party claim and receive additional compensation. For instance, if you drive a vehicle for work and were hit by another vehicle, that motorist may be liable for your damages. A workers’ compensation lawyer can assist you in pursuing a claim against the negligent driver.
A Lawyer Can Protect You Against Retaliation
Although it is perfectly within your right to file for workers’ compensation after you get hurt at work, some employers become disgruntled. They may even try to cut your pay, demote you or even fire you. If you are being mistreated at work after filing a workers’ compensation claim, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you.
If you need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim, you may want to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer, like one from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C.