Understanding Workers’ Compensation: Your Rights and Options in Missouri and Illinois
Suffering an injury at work can be a stressful and confusing experience. It’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you need to take to ensure you receive the compensation and support you deserve. At Hullverson Law Firm, we’re committed to helping injured workers in Missouri and Illinois handle their workers’ compensation claims and understand their legal options.
What is Workers’ Compensation & What Does it Do?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance carried by employers that is designed to provide financial assistance to employees injured on the job. This system offers several types of benefits for the injured party, such as coverage of medical treatment, compensation for lost wages, and, in some cases, lump sum payments as part of your work disability benefits.
Challenges with Workers’ Compensation Claims
While workers’ compensation is meant to support injured workers, sometimes, you may face challenges. Ultimately, these insurance companies want to protect their bottom line and will try to minimize your injuries to pay the least amount possible. Employers or insurance companies can delay, deny, or dispute claims. Additionally, many injured on the job face the challenge of restricted benefits and end up with less compensation than they deserve or need. These are reasons why many choose to hire an attorney to represent them rather than handle the negotiations on their own.
Third-Party Personal Injury Claims
Apart from workers’ compensation, you might have additional legal options if your injury was caused by someone other than your employer or a co-worker. For example, if you’re injured in a car accident while working, and a third party causes the accident, you can file a personal injury claim against them.
The Role of an Attorney in Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
A lawyer can do a lot to help with filing your workers’ compensation claim. There are many forms and deadlines you need to be aware of, and your attorney will take that off your plate and deal with it for you. They will also take over all negotiations with the insurance company. This is extremely beneficial, as there are some things you should and should not say when explaining why you should receive the maximum compensation. Additionally, having an attorney negotiate on your behalf shows your seriousness in getting the most for your injury. Even if you’ve tried your best to prove that you’ve been injured at the fault of your employer, your claim can be denied. An experienced attorney will appeal and fight for your rights in court if needed.
How Much Do Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Cost in Missouri or Illinois?
One of the best things about working with personal injury or workers’ compensation lawyers is that we often work on a contingency basis. This means:
- No Upfront Costs: You don’t have to pay us anything upfront. We get paid only if we win your case.
- Risk-Free Help: This setup lets you get legal help without worrying about how to afford it.
Contact a Missouri & Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you’re hurt at work in Missouri or Illinois, understanding workers’ compensation is key to getting back on your feet. Remember, you have rights and options, and you don’t have to handle this alone. If you need help with a workers’ compensation claim or think you have a personal injury case, reach out to us at Hullverson Law Firm. We have been representing clients with all types of injuries and negligence claims throughout Missouri and Southwestern Illinois for more than 100 years. When you’re going through a challenging time, we’re ready and able to help you.