Introduction

When filing a workers’ compensation case, you will want to work with a lawyer who is familiar with workers’ compensation laws in your state. While the process may seem straightforward and easy, the system is extremely complex. The attorney you choose to represent you will be your ally throughout your case and will ensure you receive the benefits and compensation you deserve.

If you are injured at work, you may be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, navigating the complex and confusing workers’ compensation system can be overwhelming. That's where a workers' compensation lawyer comes in. Hiring a skilled attorney specializing in workers' compensation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

What Does a Workers Compensation Lawyer Do? 

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When you enlist the services of a workers' compensation attorney, they take on the responsibility of reviewing your claim and ensuring that all necessary paperwork is in order. They have a deep understanding of the legal requirements and intricacies involved in the workers' compensation process, allowing them to handle the complex paperwork and procedures efficiently.

One of the key roles of a workers' compensation lawyer is to investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts if needed to build a strong case on your behalf. By conducting a thorough investigation, they aim to establish a clear link between your injury and your work, ensuring that you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to.

Throughout the process, a workers' compensation lawyer will act as your advocate, representing your interests and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. Insurance companies may try to minimize the compensation you receive or deny your claim altogether, but an experienced attorney knows how to navigate these challenges and protect your rights.

Furthermore, a workers' compensation lawyer can provide valuable legal advice and guidance tailored to your specific situation. They will explain your rights and options, helping you make informed decisions about your case. They can also assist you in understanding the workers' compensation laws in your state, as these laws can vary from one jurisdiction to another.

While it might be tempting to handle your workers' compensation claim on your own, doing so can be risky. The intricacies of the legal system and the tactics employed by insurance companies can be complex and difficult to navigate without professional assistance. Mistakes or oversights in your claim could lead to delays, reduced benefits, or even a denial of your claim.

By working with a workers' compensation lawyer, you can save yourself the trouble and financial woes associated with a mishandled claim. They have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process smoothly, increasing your chances of a successful outcome. Having a dedicated legal professional by your side during these challenging times can provide you with peace of mind and the assurance that your rights are being protected.

In summary, hiring a workers' compensation lawyer is a wise decision if you've been injured at work. They will handle the legal complexities, advocate for your rights, and strive to ensure that you receive the full benefits you deserve. With their expertise and support, you can focus on your recovery while they work diligently to secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Why You Need a Workers Comp Lawyer

1. Help Prove Your Case in the Event of Your Employer's Denial

If you get injured while at work and there is a question as to whether or not your employer was responsible, a workers’ compensation lawyer will help you prove your claim. If you simply file your claim on your own, you may be unable to convince the insurance providers and solicitor that your employer was responsible for your injury.

Hiring an attorney to review your case and gather the required information for your claim in the event of an employer’s denial will speed up the process and put you on the road to receiving the compensation you deserve.

Example: Let's say you work in a warehouse and sustain a back injury while lifting heavy boxes. You believe your employer's negligence in providing proper lifting equipment contributed to your injury. However, when you file a workers' compensation claim, your employer denies responsibility, arguing that you were not following safety protocols. In this situation, a workers' compensation lawyer can help gather evidence such as witness testimonies, surveillance footage, and medical records to prove that your employer's negligence was indeed the cause of your injury. They will present a strong case on your behalf, increasing your chances of convincing the insurance providers and solicitor of your employer's liability.

2. Avoid Your Employer's Aggression and Forced Termination

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One of the reasons workers are apprehensive about filing a claim is because they are afraid they’ll lose their job. Your employer may terminate you or intimidate you because you filed a workers’ compensation claim.

With a dedicated attorney, you’ll have someone on your side to protect your rights. A workers’ compensation attorney will make sure your employer follows the law and doesn’t fire you or otherwise intimidate you to drop your claim.

Example: Imagine you work in a manufacturing plant, and after sustaining an injury due to a faulty machine, you decide to file a workers' compensation claim. However, you are concerned that your employer might retaliate by terminating your employment or creating a hostile work environment. In this situation, a workers' compensation attorney can help protect your rights. They will ensure that your employer follows the law and does not engage in any unfair practices or intimidation tactics against you. If your employer attempts to wrongfully terminate you or retaliate due to your claim, your attorney can take appropriate legal action to safeguard your rights and seek appropriate remedies.

3. Help You Overcome the Overwhelming Filing Process

If you have never filed a claim or have never been under workers’ compensation, you may be completely unaware of the process. You may not be aware of what paperwork you need to file, how to organize all relevant information, or simply how to file them properly to avoid dismissal or delays.

A workers’ compensation attorney has experience working with the system. They know what information you need to gather and will help you organize it quickly and efficiently. They will guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your paperwork is filed on time and that you get the compensation you deserve.

Example: Suppose you work in an office setting and suffer a repetitive strain injury from long hours of computer work. As a first-time filer for workers' compensation, you may find the filing process overwhelming and confusing. You are unsure about the required paperwork, deadlines, and how to properly present your case. In such a situation, a workers' compensation attorney with experience in handling similar claims can guide you through the entire process. They will help you gather the necessary information, organize it effectively, and ensure that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time. By having a knowledgeable attorney by your side, you can navigate the complexities of the filing process smoothly and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

4. Provide Solutions If Your Employer Lacks a Workers' Compensation Insurance

There are a variety of reasons why your employer may not have workers’ compensation insurance. Perhaps they are new to the business and don’t have the coverage yet, or maybe they are so cash-strapped they can’t afford the insurance.

Whatever the reason, if your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, you’ll need to seek compensation from other sources. If you are unable to secure compensation for your injury, you could end up stuck with financial obligations that you can’t afford. An attorney can provide options that you're entitled to receive.

Example: Let's suppose you work for a small startup company that has not yet obtained workers' compensation insurance due to financial constraints. Unfortunately, you suffer a serious work-related injury that requires extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. In such a scenario, a workers' compensation lawyer can explore alternative options for compensation. They may help you identify other potential sources of recovery, such as filing a personal injury lawsuit against a third party involved in the incident or pursuing a claim through state programs for uninsured employers. By analyzing the specific circumstances of your case, an attorney can provide you with the necessary legal guidance and options to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

5. Help You Through Tricky Situations like Having a Pre-Existing Condition

If you were hurt while on the job and have a pre-existing condition, you may be worried that you won’t be able to receive compensation. However, a workers’ compensation lawyer will help you to determine if you’re eligible for compensation.

They will also help you to prove that you have a pre-existing condition that your employer was aware of before your injury. This way, you’ll receive compensation for your injury and prove that your pre-existing condition is not related to your work-related injuries.

Example: Imagine you have a pre-existing knee condition and, while working as a construction worker, you injure your knee again due to a workplace accident. You are concerned that your employer and the insurance company will argue that your current injury is solely a result of your pre-existing condition and not work-related. In this situation, a workers' compensation lawyer can help assess the facts and gather medical evidence to establish a clear connection between your work-related accident and the aggravation of your pre-existing condition. They will advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive compensation for the new injury while proving that your pre-existing condition is not the sole cause of the current workplace injury.

6. Get an Appropriate Compensation for Unforeseen Medical Expenses

Sometimes, your medical examiner may fail to take into account the underlying impact of your injury. For instance, your work-related back injury may pave the way for future conditions, causing you to have excess expenses.

With that in mind, a workers' comp lawyer can consider the possibilities of your injury, allowing you to file an accurate calculation of your claim and get the right coverage for your needs.

Example: Suppose you work as a delivery driver, and while making a delivery, you are involved in a severe car accident that causes multiple fractures and internal injuries. After undergoing initial medical treatment, you discover that you will require ongoing rehabilitation, surgeries, and specialized therapies for an extended period. In such a case, a workers' comp lawyer can help ensure that the full scope of your medical expenses is accounted for in your claim. They will work with medical experts, gather medical documentation, and present a comprehensive case to demonstrate the future medical needs arising from your workplace injury. By accurately calculating your claim, they can help you secure the appropriate compensation to cover all your unforeseen medical expenses.

7. Fight for Your Right If You Receive a Reevaluation Request or Denied Claims

If you have filed a workers’ compensation claim, your employer may request a reevaluation. During this process, your employer will request second and third opinions and ask you to resubmit your case. They may also deny your case altogether.

Workers’ compensation attorneys are familiar with these cases and will fight for your rights. They will investigate the reasons why your employer has requested a reevaluation and if there is any reason to deny your claim. They will help you to fight for your rights and get you your compensation benefits.

Example: Suppose you work in a manufacturing facility and suffer a severe hand injury while operating a defective machine. You file a workers' compensation claim, but your employer requests a reevaluation and seeks second and third opinions from different medical professionals. Consequently, they attempt to dispute the severity of your injury or argue that it was not work-related. In such a situation, a workers' compensation attorney will investigate the reasons behind the reevaluation request and any denial of your claim. They will gather additional medical evidence, consult independent medical experts, and build a strong case to challenge your employer's stance. Your attorney will fight for your rights and work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation benefits you rightfully deserve despite any obstacles faced during the claims process.

The Bottom Line: The Importance of Hiring a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

If you are hurt while working, you should immediately seek medical attention. But beyond that, you should also hire a workers' compensation lawyer to help you fight for any benefits you may be entitled to. An attorney will provide you with information about the process and ensure that your employer follows the law.

As you can see, there are a number of reasons why you need a workers’ compensation lawyer. If you have never hired an attorney, or you have hired one in the past, it may be time to find a new one. If you’re concerned about hiring an attorney to represent you, check out the services the Mendez and Sanchez Law could provide for you.

Are You Looking for Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Lawyers?

If you or someone you know has been involved in a work-related accident, contact our experienced and caring Los Angeles workers' compensation lawyers for a consultation. We can walk you through the entire process and make sure you receive the compensation you deserve!