Every worker has the right to a safe working environment, but sadly, accidents at work do happen. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported 527,116 occupational injuries and illness cases in 2024; among them, 750 are workplace fatalities.
Getting injured at work can leave you feeling helpless, in pain and troubled. Even if you qualify for compensation, dealing with the process can be confusing if it’s your first time.
Canlas Law Group says after your workplace injury, you should report it and seek medical treatment immediately. In an emergency, you can see any available doctor to obtain a workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
A workers’ comp lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure you get all your benefits. But what exactly do they do for a claim?
Table of Contents
Understanding Your Rights as an Injured Worker
Being aware of one’s rights is a focal point of treatment and finance after an incident at the job. You have the right to report the injury without retaliation; thus, you will be able to get treatment.
Know the benefits open to you that can cover your treatment and compensation for wage loss. Be aware of the statute of limitations for your claim, or you will lose your benefit.
Keep detailed records of the accident, treatments, and communications. The more you know your rights, the better you will be prepared to face these harsh realities.
Keep yourself informed. Keep asking questions that lean towards your best interest.
The Role of a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
You may find the procedures surrounding workers’ compensation claims difficult to understand. This is where a lawyer can assist you in understanding your rights and the available benefits.
Looking at the conditions of your case, your lawyer will point out issues to watch out for and help you gather evidence. You must know the time limits within which to file because failure to file within the allotted time will result in losing the benefit.
Your lawyer may also negotiate a settlement to get you compensation for the damages. Your lawyer will defend you and advocate for your interests and rights if any disputes arise.
In the worst scenario, the compensation for death at work should be claimed by the worker’s family; however, they need to provide proof of their relationship to the victim.
The lawyer handles your legal issues while you focus on improving your health or injuries.
Handling the Claims Process
It is important to know the steps when claiming compensation for your grievance. You must inform your employer immediately so that the process can begin.
Gather all documents pertinent to the case. Include anything relevant, such as medical records, incident reports, and witness statements.
File the claim with the workers’ compensation board in your state. There are deadlines you must keep track of because they differ from one state to another.
In case of denial or impediment, your workers’ compensation attorney will fight for your right to make sure you know your rights and options.
Maximizing Your Benefits
Getting injured or falling sick means piling up medical bills. Add to that the lost income and rehabilitation costs that feel like an endless financial deficit. The benefits you will receive can cover these while you can focus on recovery.
Organization plays a big part. Keep detailed records of your medical treatment and anything about your claim. Be sure to ask your employer or insurance company for any information that may be missing or any updates.
The attorneys try to negotiate bigger settlements on your behalf or ensure that you are properly compensated. They also ensure they acquire the evidence necessary to prove your case. Bear in mind that if you’re involved in a motor vehicle accident while working, you should also contact a law firm such as Gauthier & Maier Law Firm to handle the personal injury aspect as well.
How to Choose the Right Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
The workers’ compensation lawyer you end up hiring should be your case’s best asset and must therefore be picked cautiously.
Search for a local attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation claims. Ask the attorney about their record and reviews from previous clients. Set up an appointment to evaluate their capability and experience in a case similar to yours.
Ask about fees and study their way of communication; after all, you want a lawyer who will keep you well-informed. See if they know your type of work and the problems involved in it.
Trust your gut. By hiring someone you can trust, you can rest assured that they will work in your best interest.
