Personal Injury Lawyer

When you have been injured on the job, and you are unable to work, you might be concerned about whether or not you can recover compensation through your employers’ workers’ compensation insurance. In general, this will be possible for most full time employees. You can consult a work injury lawyer, like from Hickey & Turim, SC, for further advice. 

Once you know you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, you might have many different questions. The following are some of the most common questions related to medical care and denial of claims. 

Can You Choose Your Own Medical Doctor?

When it comes to knowing whether you can choose your own medical doctor for a work injury, you should know that it depends on the circumstances. Your employer must provide you with a list of so many doctors that you can visit following a work injury. You can choose from this list; however, if you opt for a doctor outside of the list, the cost might not be covered. If you have concerns, and you prefer another doctor, you may be able to ask your employer to approve your request to change doctors. 

What if I Have an Emergency?

It is your right to go to the ER if you have an emergency. For example, if a forklift malfunctions, and an object hits your foot causing a severe laceration, you should not delay in going to the emergency room. Bear in mind, your condition should actually be an emergency. Any follow up care will need to be obtained through an approved doctor provided by your employer. 

How Can I Pay for my Medical Costs?

As long as you seek medical care with an approved doctor, you should not be billed directly. Workers’ compensation should cover all related costs. If you are finding this troublesome, you can speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer. 

What Happens When My Employer Refuses to Pay Me My Benefits?

If you are eligible for workers’ compensation, and you have followed all of the guidelines, but your employer still does not want to pay your benefits, they may be penalized. The amount they are penalized for will be added to your total amount of benefits. In general, when something like this happens, you should get advice from a workers’ comp lawyer. 

My Claim Was Denied, No What?

If you have been denied, you can file an appeal with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. You can request a hearing, and if you have legitimate grounds for an appeal, a hearing will be scheduled and held before an administrative law judge. Typically hearings are scheduled within 60 days of your request. You can have a workers’ compensation lawyer present, and you should. 

What if the Accident Was My Fault?

If you caused the injury at work, you may still be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. That said, if it is found that you acted recklessly or were intoxicated, you may be unable to recover benefit. 

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a workers’ compensation lawyer, please call a law firm today.