If you are injured on the job, workers’ compensation should cover you for lost wages and for medical expenses and possibly for permanent disability benefits. Sometimes, however, either the insurance carrier or your employer denies your entitlement to the benefits you are claiming. They may disagree about whether your injury or illness is work-related and therefore covered, or contest the type and scope of medical treatment required, or seek to minimize or deny the payment of temporary benefits and/or permanent (partial or total) disability benefits.
When you find that your claim is being disputed, it is wise to seek legal advice so you know your options. There is no charge for consultation. No attorney’s fee is paid for representation of you unless the attorney obtains benefits for you. Also, the fee must be approved by the workers’ compensation judge.
By filing a formal claim to resolve any dispute, the judge of compensation’s decision has binding authority, and can only be overturned by an appellate court. All claimants should be mindful of the statute of limitations — the time limit — in which your claim must be filed. If you do not file the claim on time, you lose your right to make it. Basic information on the claims process and statute of limitations are available online.
If you are involved in a dispute over your workers’ comp benefits, contact us as soon as possible so we may help you to evaluate your rights and your options, and to represent your interests during the process. There is no charge for consultation. No attorney’s fee is paid for representation of you unless we obtain benefits for you. Also, the fee must be approved by the workers’ compensation judge.