Many employees who experience workplace injuries have difficulty understanding the workers’ compensation process. They may need clarification about filing paperwork and dealing with insurance representatives.
A skilled lawyer can translate legalese into English and help employees complete the necessary paperwork. They can also assist with developing medical evidence, attending hearings and trials, taking depositions, and performing other research.
Representation of the Claimant
A worker’s compensation attorney at thehouseofworkcomp.com can provide valuable legal support and guidance if an employer or insurance company denies benefits. These benefits can cover medical treatment, a portion of lost wages, and other expenses. An experienced workers’ comp lawyer can also help victims fight against retaliation.
Workers who have sustained a permanent or long-term injury may need disability benefits. A workers’ compensation lawyer will work to secure the maximum benefits available.
An attorney will assist in scheduling medical testimony and arguing the case before a Judge. They will also work with physicians to determine a disability rating. This value will determine the amount an injured worker will receive in benefits. Experienced lawyers are well-versed in navigating the complexities of this system and can ensure that the proper evidence is presented. They can also review settlement offers to ensure they don’t include any restrictive clauses that could affect future financial benefits.
Representation of the Employer
The system has problems even though the law mandates businesses to have workers’ compensation insurance to cover illnesses and accidents that happen to employees on the job. In addition to receiving medical care, injured workers are entitled to a portion of their lost pay (up to two-thirds of their gross average weekly wage before taxes).
A skilled workers’ compensation lawyer knows how to fight to ensure these benefits are granted and paid promptly. They can also help to avoid complications by ensuring that medical records clearly show the nature of a work injury or illness and that all appropriate treatment is documented.
In addition, attorneys specializing in workers’ comp are well-versed in the procedures of the Industrial Commission and can effectively cross-examine witnesses at hearings. They can also represent clients in appeals before the Full Board and Appellate Division.
Representation of the Insurance Company
A workers’ compensation lawyer may also help clients navigate obstacles and challenges that can arise during the claim process. For example, if an insurance company denies a claim, the attorney can file an appeal or request a hearing. Similarly, suppose the employer or insurance carrier offers a settlement less than you are entitled to. In that case, the workers’ compensation lawyer can review it and help ensure the agreement doesn’t include hidden clauses that will cost you in the long run.
A Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer can also help clients obtain monetary benefits for permanent injuries, such as disability and indemnity payments. They can also determine whether a worker is eligible for other benefits, such as vocational rehabilitation or death benefits. Workers’ compensation lawyers can also help workers file a civil lawsuit against third parties that contributed to their injury, such as the manufacturer of a defective piece of machinery. This type of lawsuit can result in larger settlements as victims can pursue noneconomic and economic damages.
Negotiation of Settlements
By accepting workers’ compensation, injured employees agree to give up further legal recourse against their employer in exchange for guaranteed medical expenses and a small amount for lost wages. However, in some cases, the insurance company or employer may attempt to limit or deny payment for medical bills or other damages.
A workers’ comp lawyer can help you navigate the negotiation process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. This includes helping you negotiate a lump sum settlement or periodic payments (e.g., every week, month, or year) instead of a lump sum.
The best time to begin negotiations is when you are in a strong bargaining position, such as when the party that owes you a duty of care breached that obligation through an unreasonably dangerous decision or action that placed you at risk of harm. Alternatively, you can hire a mediator to facilitate the discussions.
