If you are injured in a workplace accident, the consequences can be life-changing. Medical bills, loss of income, and emotional suffering are just some of the losses that you may incur. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits can help you recover your financial losses. Unfortunately, employers and their insurance companies often fight claims to avoid paying full and fair value. The assistance of a Work injury lawyer can make all the difference in securing maximum compensation for your losses.
You’ve Been Injured in New York
Most New York employers carry workers’ comp coverage in case their employees are hurt on the job. The purpose of this coverage is to ensure that an injured worker receives money for their medical treatment, lost wages, and, if necessary, permanent disability. Unfortunately, this type of coverage is not always easy to obtain. Many insurance companies reject bona fide workers’ comp claims, and they may also attempt to discredit the severity of a person’s injuries. Having one of our Work injury lawyers advocate on your behalf minimizes the chances that your claim will be rejected, and it can dramatically increase your chances of getting the money you deserve.
You Have a Pre-Existing Condition
When it comes to workers’ comp, one of the most important things you can do is see your doctor right away after an injury. In addition, you must follow your employer’s instructions regarding where to go for treatment. If you don’t follow these guidelines, your workers’ comp may not pay for your medical costs. Additionally, it is sometimes difficult to change doctors when you are not satisfied with the care you’re receiving.
You Have a Defective Product or Machinery Caused Your Injury
If you are working on a construction site and are injured when something malfunctions, you may have grounds to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer. The same is true if you are injured while using a piece of equipment that was not maintained properly. These cases can be complex, and it’s critical to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side.
Your Work Injury Lawyer Can Handle All Your Issues
If your claim is disputed, it will likely require a hearing before a Workers’ Compensation Law Judge. This is an opportunity to present your case, have witnesses testify on your behalf, and provide evidence that supports your injury and the extent of your loss. A workers’ compensation attorney can prepare your case for this hearing and handle all the administrative details for you.
Many injured workers don’t realize that seemingly small events can hurt their claim. For example, if you post innocuous pictures of yourself on social media after your injury, insurance companies can use this to argue that you are not as severely injured as you claim. A workers’ compensation attorney can alert you to issues like these and coach you on how to avoid them. In some cases, the settlement of a workers’ compensation claim is submitted to Medicare, and you might enter into a WCMSA (Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement). An attorney can help you ensure that your future medical needs are covered by any agreement you might have to make with Medicare.