Have you been injured on the job? If so, you likely are due workers’ compensation. As
you may have discovered, the workers’ comp system is complex and difficult to
navigate. Before trying to do so on your own, you should obtain information from an
attorney knowledgeable about the law. If you run into any kind of workers’ comp problems,
here are five reasons why you should seriously consider contacting a workers’ comp lawyer:
Advice on Compensation
You may be wondering whether or not you qualify for compensation at all. Your
employer will tell you one thing, but this typically is in the best interest of the company,
not you. A workers’ compensation attorney can advise you on whether or not your
injuries qualify for coverage and what compensation you are entitled to receive.
Properly File a Claim
Any error in your workers’ compensation paperwork may either prevent you from
receiving what you’re owed or it can cause your claim to be rejected all together.
A workers’ compensation lawyer at your side can protect your interests and attempt
to assure that this doesn’t happen.
Insights on Benefits
Beyond workers’ compensation, you may qualify for other benefits Whether these are
long term disability benefits, Social Security benefits or other benefits, the attorney will
know about these other benefits that can help make ends meet. Your attorney knows
the ins and outs and can help ensure you receive the maximum amount of money
possible because of your injury.
Handling Appeals
There are times where your workers’ comp claim is denied or the carrier issues a notice
that changes your claim status or compensation. You may assume there’s nothing you
can do about this. However, this is wrong. It is possible to appeal the carrier’s action.
Filing an appeal (called a Request for Hearing) is the process to follow. Having an
experienced attorney on your side to fight for your rights is extremely important
at this stage.
Hearing Process
If the carrier refuses to pay for treatment or compensation that you are due, you need to
have a hearing to determine your rights. These matters are heard by an Industrial
Commission of Arizona Administrative Law Judge. There are lots of procedures that
must be followed to protect your rights. If you don’t know them, you should make
certain to review these with an experienced attorney.
If you are ever injured on the job, you need experienced professionals on your side.
At Schiffman Law Office, P.C., we fight for the rights of injured workers and
their families.
