When a serious work injury occurs, people often panic. They may not understand their rights or the steps involved in obtaining their Work injury benefits. Workers’ compensation programs were put into place to help injured employees receive the medical care and wage replacement benefits they deserve. Those who have been injured on the job need to learn as much as possible about their rights, and they should do everything possible to protect them.
Workers’ Compensation Protects Injured Employees
Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. When a person is injured on the job, they must inform their employer or supervisor right away. This starts the claim process. Once the injured party has been approved for workers’ compensation, all of their medical care costs are covered under the insurance, and they never even see the bills because all are sent directly to the provider.
Another benefit of workers’ compensation is wage replacement. Whenever someone is injured on the job and cannot work, they have the right to receive wage replacement. It is important to note that the workers’ compensation wage replacement will only offer a percentage of the employee’s pay. The benefits payments will continue until the doctor releases the worker and allows them to go back to work.
Workers’ compensation programs also provide benefits to those who become permanently disabled due to an injury that occurs on the job. The benefits would include long-term medical care and even training services to help the individual find a new type of employment that accommodates their disability.
It is important injured workers are aware of the rights they hold and the benefits they are entitled to receive. If a worker is unaware of their rights, they will often be taken advantage of by unscrupulous employers or insurance companies that are only looking to protect their bottom lines.
Should Injured Workers Hire a Lawyer?
Injured workers should consider hiring a lawyer from the very beginning. Even if they feel their employer will approve the claim, it is always wise to seek legal help. Many injured workers find out the hard way that workers’ compensation claims can become issues in some instances. Often, injured workers are denied their benefits and have to end up appealing decisions.
Hiring a lawyer is a smart decision, and it gives injured workers the legal guidance they need for making the best decisions. The lawyer becomes an advocate for their client, fighting for their rights and best interests throughout the process. Often, injured workers can seek a contingency arrangement, which means they will not be held responsible for their lawyer’s fees unless they win their claim.
Call today if you have suffered a serious injury on the job. You have the right to seek legal help to ensure the insurance company and your employer are fair. A lawyer will help to ensure your rights are protected. They can help with the appeal process and may offer options for pursuing a third-party lawsuit, depending on the circumstances involved and your injuries.
