While some workplace injuries aren’t serious enough to file a claim, they often adversely affect your quality of life. However, there were over 4.2 million work-related injuries that needed medical attention in 2021. Even a single incident could cause major complications.
This could affect your mental health and make it more difficult to support yourself and your family. If you’ve been injured on the job, your first course of action should be hiring a workplace injury lawyer.
We’ve created a guide that details the primary reasons to do so. Let’s explore the key information you should know.
1. Experience
The primary benefit of hiring a workplace injury attorney is gaining access to expert guidance. Many people are overwhelmed by the incident’s aftermath and don’t know how to take action.
Handling the situation incorrectly could weaken your claim. A common example is an injured person neglecting to get medical attention immediately after their injury occurs.
The defendant’s legal team could argue that the plaintiff’s injuries weren’t serious since they didn’t promptly seek medical examination. Your attorney will assess your situation and determine the best course of action.
This is particularly useful if your injury has caused hardship. It’s not uncommon for workplace accidents to make it impossible for someone to support themselves.
For instance, let’s assume you fell down a flight of stairs and broke your arm. You may not physically be able to work, which would substantially reduce your income.
2. Your Employer Won’t Help You
It’s in your employer’s best interest to protect themselves after a workplace incident. Understand that anything they tell you is for their benefit and not yours.
This is true even if it seems like they’re legitimately concerned about your injuries. In some cases, your employer could attempt to deceive you.
They might downplay your injuries and say that you don’t need to seek medical attention. They could also make it more difficult for you to file a claim, such as withholding the proper forms.
Malicious employers could retaliate against workers who take action. This comes in various forms, such as workplace harassment or wrongful termination. Behavior like this is highly illegal.
Since your employer will never be on your side, you should hire an attorney as soon as possible. They can get the competition you deserve while keeping an eye out for shady employer behavior.
3. Avoid Filing Mistakes
Filing mistakes can easily derail a workplace injury lawsuit. A reputable attorney can help you manage your paperwork correctly. They can also review your documents for errors.
They’ll notice issues you would have otherwise overlooked. If they find areas of concern, your attorney will offer advice on how to move forward. This level of service can dictate whether your case is ruled in your favor.
4. Insight into Additional Options
Many people who are injured at their workplace qualify for benefits they’re unaware of. For instance, a qualified attorney can help you take advantage of workman’s compensation.
They can also help you look for long-term disability benefits if your injuries leave you debilitated. This plays a large role in maximizing the amount of money you get after the incident.
Don’t make the mistake of overlooking available opportunities. They could amount to tens of thousands of dollars in many cases.
5. Navigate the Legal Process
It’s no secret that the legal system is difficult to navigate. Not only is it hard to get started, but dealing with contingencies is also complicated. For instance, your worker’s compensation claim could be denied.
You could also be asked for documents you’re unknowledgeable of. Without an attorney on your side, this would likely be the end of the road.
6. Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies will do anything they can to avoid paying. In some scenarios, they do so in bad faith.
This refers to a situation where an insurance provider uses unethical or illegal tactics to avoid providing compensation. Qualified attorneys can easily recognize this behavior and take action. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to obtain higher settlements.
Under no circumstances should you speak with the other party’s insurance provider without talking to a lawyer. Even a simple statement like “I didn’t see the object I tripped over” could substantially harm your case.
Finding a Workplace Injury Lawyer
Finding the right attorney is essential to your success. It can seem difficult at first to find the ideal lawyer, but the process is easier than most people anticipate. Their past reputation is one of the most important attributes to consider.
This provides insight into how satisfied previous clients were. A quick online search will tell you everything you need to know. You should also assess how enthusiastic they seem about your case.
If they aren’t interested in getting the compensation you deserve, you likely won’t reach your goals. How easy is the attorney to contact?
Never work with someone who’s difficult to get in touch with. Getting left in the dark during your case is a frustrating experience. Assess their pricing structure before making your decision.
Some attorneys charge flat fees, while others charge hourly rates. In some situations, your attorney will work on a contingency basis. This refers to a situation where they take their compensation from the money you’re awarded.
If you don’t win your case, you don’t pay anything. Make sure they concentrate on this area of law, as well. Many lawyers advertise they can help with workplace injuries, but not all of them focus primarily on cases like these.
Take Action ASAP
The longer you wait, the more difficult your case will become. Hire a workplace injury lawyer as soon as possible so you can get the compensation you deserve. Just be sure to properly vet them so you can get the best results.
At Heard Accident & Injury Trial Lawyers, our professional teams strive to exceed each of our client’s expectations. We pride ourselves on being experts, and lawyers are both locally and nationally recognized for their excellence. Book a free consultation today to learn more about how we can handle your case.
