A work related injury can be a nightmare. Not only do you have to deal with the embarrassment of getting hurt in front of your co-workers, you also have to come up with a way to keep your bills paid while you heal, something that’s not easy when you’re too injured to work. Worker comp helps out.
Most employers are really good when it comes to treating their employees in need of workers comp fairly. However, there are exceptions. Even when you have the best boss in the world, you need to take steps to make sure you’re getting the compensation you deserve. You need to align yourself with a workers comp attorney.
After getting hurt at work, your first priority will be getting medical attention. You’re health needs to be your first priority. By getting medical attention right away, you decrease the chances of you being able to go back to work in the future. Lawyers who specialize in workplace accidents recommend seeking medical assistance even if the injuries seem to be minor. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
The next thing on your list of things to do will be selecting a reputable workers comp attorney.
When you meet with your workers comp attorney, you need to bring along your copy of the accident report. Your workers comp attorney will use the report to help them decide if your case will be a good match for their talents. The report, combined with your medical bills will help the workers comp attorney determine how much compensation you’re entitled to. If your employer hasn’t filed an official report, you and your attorney will need to draft a report.
If your employer has started to give you flack about filing for compensation, tell your lawyer. Employers can’t actively discourage their employees from seeking compensation; it’s illegal. The issue needs to be brought to the attention of the Workers Compensation office right away. Your lawyer will help you file a report.
While some workers compensation lawyers want you to believe you’re entitled to millions of dollars just because you got hurt while working. This rarely happens. A good attorney will tell you that all you can reasonably expect to get will be to get your medical bills covered and a living wage. The only way you’re going to be able to get millions will be if you can prove the employer created a hazardous work environment.
When seeking the services of a workers comp attorney you need to take your time and hire an attorney who both specializes in employment law and who takes an interest in your case. You should always get the sense your attorney genuinely cares about your future, and doesn’t just see you as a way to collect legal fees.
