Workplace injuries can take many forms, ranging from physical harm, such as falls or machinery accidents, to long-term illnesses caused by hazardous work environments. These injuries may result in medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes long-term disabilities.
Most employees in the U.S. are covered by workers’ compensation, which provides employees with benefits to cover their injury-related losses. However, even with this system in place, disputes and challenges can arise, leaving workers feeling unsupported or treated unfairly.
This is where an experienced lawyer can step in to protect your rights and ensure you’re treated fairly. From understanding your legal rights to dealing with insurance companies and employers, knowing when to get a lawyer for a work injury can make all the difference in helping ensure you’re properly compensated.
If you’ve recently been injured while on the job or are unsure of your options, the situations below break down when to hire a work injury lawyer:
- When your claim is denied or delayed
- When insurance doesn’t offer enough to cover your costs
- When your employer retaliates against you
- When third parties are involved in your injury
- When you can’t return to your old job or any job
- When you need to coordinate Social Security disability benefits
- When you’re preparing for a workers’ compensation hearing
- When you need cost-free legal advice
If you do find that you need a lawyer, Jim Glaser Law is only a call away. Serving Boston, Sharon, Cambridge, and nearby Massachusetts areas, we’re ready to stand by your side every step of the way.
When your claim is denied or delayed
Dealing with a denial or delay in your workers’ compensation claim can make it hard to stay financially stable during your recovery. Common reasons for denied claims include missed deadlines, questions about whether the injury is work-related, or not enough medical proof.
How a work injury lawyer helps: An experienced lawyer can help by identifying the reason for the denial, collecting important documents, and submitting an appeal on time. They can also represent you during hearings and discussions, improving your chances of getting a positive result.
When insurance doesn’t offer enough to cover your costs
It’s common for insurance companies to offer settlements that don’t fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, or other costs tied to your injury. If you accept one of these offers, it could leave you struggling financially, especially if your injuries need long-term care or prevent you from working permanently.
How a work injury lawyer helps: A skilled work injury lawyer can figure out how much your claim is really worth, taking into account all current and future expenses. They’ll work to negotiate a settlement that fairly compensates you for your losses.
When your employer retaliates against you
Sometimes, employers retaliate against workers who file workers’ compensation claims. This might include firing, demoting, cutting work hours, or assigning you bad tasks to make your job harder. Not only is this unethical, but it’s also against the law.
How a work injury lawyer helps: A lawyer can help you file a retaliation claim, gather evidence to support your case, and represent you in legal proceedings to make sure your employer is held responsible.
When third parties are involved in your injury
If your injury involves a third party, like a contractor, equipment maker, or another entity, you might be able to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to your workers’ comp claim. These claims can provide extra compensation, like for pain and suffering, which workers’ comp typically doesn’t cover.
How a work injury lawyer helps: A lawyer can figure out who is responsible, manage multiple claims, and help you get the most compensation possible.
When you can’t return to your old job or any job
If your injuries are so serious that you can’t return to your old job—or any job—it could lead to long-term financial problems. You may qualify for permanent disability benefits or help with finding a new career through vocational rehab.
How a work injury lawyer helps: A lawyer can document your limitations, fight for fair benefits, and ensure your future earning potential is taken into account when determining your compensation.
When you need to coordinate Social Security disability benefits
Getting both workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be tricky. These benefits often affect each other, which could lower the total amount you receive.
How a work injury lawyer helps: An experienced lawyer can help organize your benefits to reduce these offsets, keep you within all legal guidelines, and maximize the money you receive overall.
When you’re preparing for a workers’ compensation hearing
If your claim is challenged, you might have to go through a workers’ compensation hearing. This involves showing evidence, questioning witnesses, and making arguments. Without legal help, it could be tough to present the strongest case.
How a work injury lawyer helps: A lawyer can prepare everything for the hearing, represent you, and work to get the best possible result for your situation.
When you need cost-free legal advice
After experiencing a work injury, navigating the legal process can often feel overwhelming and confusing. That’s why at Jim Glaser Law, we’re committed to making it easier for you. We offer free consultations, allowing you a no-cost opportunity to understand your rights and explore your options without the pressure of paying anything upfront. During this consultation, our experienced attorneys will listen to your story, assess your situation, and guide you through the available legal avenues. We’re here to provide support and help you make informed choices about your case, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you may deserve.
