Getting injured in the workplace is always a possibility regardless of where you work or what industry you’re in. While nobody wants to be in a situation like that, as an employee, you need to know when it’s in your best interest to find a workplace injury attorney, to help you deal with insurance companies and get the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure when to seek legal help, here’s a simple guide to help you decide if hiring a lawyer is right for your situation.
When You Don’t Need a Lawyer
Let’s clear this off the table first. There are situations when the intervention of lawyers isn’t always necessary. If you’re in any of the following situations, you probably don’t need to look for an attorney:
- If you have a minor injury like a small cut or a sprained ankle, you are unlikely to face much resistance from the insurance company.
- Your employer acknowledges that your injury or illness occurred at work.
- Your injury doesn’t require you to take time off for extended periods from work.
- Your injury or illness is obviously work-related.
- You don’t have a pre-existing condition related to the injury or illness.
These scenarios may seem straightforward, but contacting a couple of workers; compensation attorneys in Oakland could still be beneficial. If possible, get a free consultation and let your lawyer go over the process with you and answer any questions.
When You Do Need a Lawyer
If your claim is in dispute with your employer or the insurance company, a worker’s compensation lawyer is definitely needed. There are parts in the workers’ compensation claims process that you may not understand by yourself. Here are a few scenarios where the expertise of a lawyer is needed.
- Your claim is denied - This can happen for many reasons. You need a lawyer to help you make an appeal and complete the necessary paperwork for the claims process. You also need guidance in attending hearings and depositions, as well as gathering evidence.
- You have a pre-existing condition - The insurance company can dispute your claim if you have a pre-existing condition or injury related to the recent work-related injury you sustained. You need the backing of a competent lawyer since the insurers will do everything to avoid compensating you in this situation.
- You have a permanent disability - If your permanent disability rating is being disputed, your lawyer can help you in the event that the insurance company requires an independent medical examination with their doctor.
- Your ability to work is compromised - any injuries sustained that could affect your ability to work again on any job is a terrible situation to be in. This is why you need a workers’ compensation lawyer to help structure your benefits so they’ll last you into the future and get you training for a different job if necessary.
Conclusion
Those are just some of the possible scenarios where a workers’ compensation attorney may or may not be needed. You need to consider your situation carefully, and a lawyer can offer guidance on what you should do next.
If you were involved in an accident while on the job or suffer a work-related illness, you need the help of a passionate and skillful lawyer to get the benefits you need to get back on your feet. Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, is here to help. As workers’ compensation attorneys in Oakland, we represent injured workers throughout Northern California. Call (800) 606-6999 for a free consultation today.
