MenuIf you have sustained an injury on the job, then it might be tempting to file a workers’ compensation claim on your own and hope for the best, particularly if the injury is minor, such as a sprained wrist or a small laceration that only requires a few stitches. This is a mistake. In the case of any employment-related injury, even a small one, the best choice you can make is to contact a workers’ compensation attorney right away. Asking, “Why should I hire an attorney?” Here are five reasons why:
Workers’ Compensation Law is Difficult to Navigate
Nothing is ever as straight forward as it seems when it comes to the law, and workers’ compensation law is particularly complicated. Some cases are fairly simple, such as minor injuries that do not result in lost work time or injuries with no pre-existing condition involved. Even so, consulting an experienced attorney is a good idea. He can review your case, offer guidance and spot potential problems that are not obvious to you. This is especially true if the injuries are serious. Often these initial case reviews are free of charge.
Employers and Insurers Routinely Dispute Workers’ Compensation Claims
Employers routinely contest legitimate workers’ compensation claims because they do not want their insurance rates to increase. So they might dispute that the injury occurred on company grounds or say that the damage was a result of horseplay. They might claim that the injury was not witnessed and therefore did not really happen as you say it did.
Insurance companies – and their high-priced lawyers – deny legitimate workers’ compensation claims because they do not want to make payments if they can avoid doing so. So the insurance adjuster might conclude that you exaggerated your claim or took too long to file it. When this happens, then the only way to fight back and get the workers’ compensation benefits that you deserve is by hiring a skilled workers’ compensation attorney.
Your Injuries Prevent You from Returning to Work
If your job-related injury is so severe that you are partially or permanently disabled and unable to return to work, then the smartest thing that you can do is contact a workers’ compensation attorney immediately. These kinds of cases cost insurance companies huge amounts of money, and they will do whatever they can to avoid approving these claims and paying lifelong benefits.
You Want to Receive the Biggest Settlement Possible
Even if your employer and his workers’ compensation insurance company approve your claim, the settlement award might not cover all of your medical expenses and lost wages. You might be left with bills to pay. After all, the insurance company will do everything it can to pay as little as it can. This is when a dedicated workers’ compensation attorney is worth his weight in gold. He can ensure that your interests are fairly represented and that you receive the settlement that you deserve, not the one that the insurance company wants to pay.
Your Employer Retaliates Against You
Some employers retaliate against employees if they file a workers’ compensation claim. This can take many forms, including reducing your hours, reassigning you, negative performance reviews and even termination. This is illegal behavior. If it happens, then it is time to call an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer who can protect your rights and put a stop to the retaliation.
If you were injured on the job, then contact us. We offer a free case review and will determine the best path forward together. Out job is to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Minnesota workers’ compensation law is complicated. Do not try to navigate it on your own. Get our experienced, dedicated attorneys on your side today.
Contact A Mankato Workers' Compensation Lawyer Today
Contact the law office of Chesley, Harvey & Carpenter today at (507) 625-3000 for a free case review. We are located in Mankato, Minnesota.