If you were injured at work, it can be overwhelming and complicated to deal with. Medical bills, lost wages, and other losses add up quickly. A Work injury lawyer can help you manage your claim and get the compensation you deserve.
Every state has a workers’ compensation program, but laws vary widely, and the specifics can be confusing. It’s important to hire a New York workplace injury lawyer to guide you through the process. The first step in a workers’ comp claim is to obtain medical treatment. In the case of an emergency, go where the ambulance takes you, but otherwise, your employer will probably recommend a hospital, clinic or doctor to you. Your doctor will then be required to complete Form C-4, the Doctor’s Initial Report, and send it to the WCB within 48 hours of your initial visit.
In many states, your employer’s insurance company will be your referring doctor and will pay for the cost of your care, although you can petition to change providers. However, your employer and the WCB’s representatives have their own financial interests in mind, so it’s important to have an attorney on your side who has your best interest at heart.
Work Injury Lawyer: Your Rights and Options
Most injured employees rely on workers’ compensation benefits to cover their medical expenses and replace part of their lost income. While most workers’ comp claims are approved, the number of denied cases is high. When the resulting loss of benefits is significant, it’s critical to have a knowledgeable workplace injury lawyer on your side who will advocate for you and your best interests.
Your injuries may be so severe that you can’t return to your job. In these circumstances, your attorney can fight to ensure you receive the full amount of permanent disability benefits that are available to you.
Depending on the nature of your injuries, you may also be eligible to file a personal injury claim against a third party who contributed to the accident. For example, a contractor on your construction site, a manufacturer of equipment, or a property owner could be held responsible for unsafe conditions.
While you only have two years to file a workers’ comp claim, you should discuss your legal options with a Work Injury lawyer as soon as possible. Generally, you will want to consult an experienced attorney as early as possible to give them the opportunity to begin investigating your claim and to build a strong case. The earlier an attorney begins, the more evidence they have to build a compelling case on your behalf. This can be especially helpful if you have a complex or unusual injury. If you wait too long, it may be impossible to prove your eligibility for a claim or get the compensation you deserve. If you’re interested in learning more about your options for a work injury claim, please contact us for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will answer your questions and provide you with the representation you need.