The process of seeking workers compensation benefits will likely include a workers’ compensation judge hearing evidence from witnesses and medical records. If the judge rejects your claim, you may have the right to appeal the decision to the Workers’ Compensation Board. There are also ways to settle your case without filing a lawsuit. A stipulation agreement is often reached and you will continue to receive regular payments for your pain and suffering. If you do decide to file a lawsuit, it is important to find a workers compensation lawyer.
Benefits of hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer
Hiring a workers’ compensation attorney is a good idea if you were injured at work. An attorney has the experience needed to cut through the red tape and fight for your rights. An experienced lawyer will listen to your story, calm your nerves, and celebrate with you when you get your compensation. You shouldn’t have to face the insurance company’s lawyers alone, so why not hire a worker’s compensation attorney to fight for you?
Cost
The cost of hiring a workers compensation attorney depends on several factors. While most attorneys charge between five and ten percent of the total settlement, in some states, they may charge up to twenty percent of the entire award. The amount you pay will depend on several factors, including how much you win, the type of benefits you receive, and the amount of time the lawyer spent on your case. Some states also cap the amount you can be awarded. To avoid paying too much, check with your state’s workers compensation agency to determine how much a lawyer can charge.
Experience
An experienced workers compensation lawyer understands the intricacies of workers’ compensation law. An attorney will know how to negotiate effectively with insurance companies, ensuring a fair settlement for the injured worker. A skilled attorney can also ensure that a settlement agreement is written properly. Without an attorney, the employee may receive an award that is too low or too high, and a mishandled case can end up costing hundreds of dollars per month in Social Security benefits.
Pre-existing condition
During an injury at work, a worker may be unable to perform his or her regular job duties. A pre-existing condition that is aggravated by the injury may be covered by the workers compensation insurer. While temporary disability benefits are usually provided to workers who are unable to work, they will not receive them if they return to their normal job. A third party claims workers compensation lawyer can help determine whether a pre-existing condition qualifies for benefits.
Section 32 settlements
A Section 32 settlement is an agreement between the injured worker and their insurance carrier that ends the worker’s right to receive future, ongoing benefits or annuity payments. When approved by the Workers’ Compensation Board, these agreements close a claim indefinitely. The insurance carrier is no longer responsible for future, recurring lost wages and benefits. However, if you are an injured worker and would like to maximize your immediate payment, an experienced workers compensation attorney is essential.