Why should I hire an attorney to help me with my workers’ compensation claim?

Hiring an attorney isn’t always necessary. If your claim is straightforward, and not being challenged by your employer or your employer’s insurance company, you can likely handle it yourself. However, many claims are more complex, requiring the expertise of a workers’ compensation attorney.

What a Lawyer Can Do for You

Your attorney can gather evidence, take depositions, request an independent medical examination, and hire expert witnesses in order to challenge the insurance company’s position.

An attorney can also help you when:

• Your claim is denied. Insurance companies are likely to dispute claims regarding injuries that require expensive medical treatments; involve a pre-existing condition; or result in permanent ailments. If the insurance company denies your claim, you can appeal that decision through the workers’ compensation system. This typically requires the filing of formal paperwork, evidence gathering, and presentation of your case at a hearing. A workers’ compensation attorney can handle this complicated process for you.
• You can’t qualify for the treatment you need. Insurance companies frequently delay or deny claims involving expensive medical treatments. Your attorney can pressure the insurance company to approve the treatments you need in a timely fashion.
• Your permanent disability rating is disputed. Most workers’ compensation claims include permanent disability benefits, which are determined by your permanent disability rating. If the insurance company disputes the rating assigned by your treating doctor, you may be required to submit to an independent medical examination (IME). The doctor performing the IME will likely assign a much lower disability rating, which the insurance company then uses to reduce your benefits. Your lawyer can fight this lower rating, and help you receive the benefits you deserve.

Hiring an Attorney

Attorneys are experienced negotiators, and effective at gathering the evidence you need. All of this means less stress for you and better protection of your workers’ compensation benefits. To learn more about how proper legal counsel can help your case, contact the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., by using the form on this page.