A workers’ compensation case may seem complicated when you’re dealing with it for the first time. One of the questions you may be asking is whether you need a lawyer for a workers’ compensation case. Depending on the scenario, a lawyer may be crucial or may not be required.
If you developed a minor injury and you have a good relationship with your employer, hiring an attorney may not be required. However, you should also ensure that you understand the workers’ comp process.
On the other hand, if you have sustained a major injury or illness or there’s a disagreement between you and your employer about whether you are entitled to the workers’ comp, there could be a need for a lawyer. Having a lawyer can help ensure that there is someone to speak on your behalf who understands all the intricacies of workers’ compensation claims.
Can You Self-Represent?
Many people consider representing themselves when it comes to workers’ compensation claims. It’s possible to represent yourself for workers’ comp cases. The first step is determining if you are eligible to file for a workers’ compensation claim. Here are a few basic requirements to file a claim.
● You sustained a minor injury
● You haven’t missed much work
● Your employer agrees that your illness or injury is work-related
● You don’t have a pre-existing injury that relates to the present one
Once you meet the requirements above, you can go through the steps for a workers’ compensation claim without the help of a lawyer. However, you should consider consulting a lawyer for guidance even if you fall into those categories.
When to Consult a Lawyer for a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
It’s highly advisable to consult a lawyer that offers a free consultation even when you have a good idea of what the process entails. In most cases, you need a lawyer to get workers’ compensation benefits and ensure you get all that you are entitled to. You should hire a lawyer when the process appears to be complicated. Here are some examples of some possible complications:
● Your employer doesn’t admit that the injury is work-related
● You are rewarded with a settlement offer that excludes a percentage of lost wages and medical bills
● You can’t return to the same job due to your present condition
● You receive Social Security Disability benefits
● A third-party was involved in the work-related accident
● You don’t like the way you were treated or penalized at work due to the workers’ compensation claim
What Should You Expect from a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
There are a couple of things that you should expect from an appropriate lawyer. Here are some of them.
● The lawyer ensures that all forms are filled before the stated deadline
● They communicate with the insurance provider on your behalf
● They provide medical evidence that supports your workers’ comp claims
● They negotiate for a fair settlement agreement for protecting your rights
● They attend a hearing on your behalf if it’s required.
There are many other responsibilities that your workers’ comp lawyer performs. Overall, they ensure that the whole process goes smoothly with no hiccups.
Hiring a lawyer for workers’ compensation may seem unimportant for you if you understand all the requirements for the claim. However, it is the best way to ensure you get all the benefits you are entitled to. It will save you a lot of trouble when you have one to help and make the whole experience easier.
You should have a lawyer to work closely with your insurance company. Contact the team at Northeastern Group Ltd. to get started on your tailored coverage. We provide support in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida.
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