Workers’ comp is designed to help members of the labor force weather serious situations that prevent them from working without being financially destroyed, and it’s a government program. So, why would anyone need a workers’ comp lawyer? Shouldn’t it be as simple as proving you’ve been injured and then the checks show up?
Well, unfortunately, there’s a lot of bureaucracy involved, and a lot of people who qualify for it either don’t get it or have to fight for it for a long time.
When you are in need of workers’ comp, you need it as soon as possible, and you are entitled to it. So, don’t try to take your workers’ comp case on your own.
If you’re still hesitant, here are 10 benefits of a workers’ comp lawyer that you can expect to enjoy when you have one on your side.
1. Less Direct Involvement in the Courtroom
The courtroom is a stressful and intimidating place when you don’t engage with it often, and most people have no reason to. As such, most people get very stressed out when they think about having to present their case before a judge.
You will still have to speak in court and perform certain tasks, but a workers comp lawyer will advocate for you and handle the vast majority of courtroom tasks. Whether that’s entering items into evidence or presenting your case in full.
This dramatically reduces how much you have to do, and you can focus on the issue that is making you pursue workers’ comp in the first place.
2. Resources You Can’t Access
You might know what happened that caused your injury, and you might be able to communicate your case effectively, but you can’t realistically access some of the resources a lawyer can access fairly easily.
Your lawyer can petition that workplace camera feeds be released to show the at-work accident that happened, receive the documentation for the situation when you reported it, gain access to expert witnesses, and more that can all help your case.
3. Determine if You’re Eligible
Unfortunately, even if you think you’re eligible for workers’ comp payments, you might not be. On the other hand, you might think you don’t stand a chance of receiving it, but you are actually entitled to it.
That confusion can often lead to workers wasting their time pursuing it or missing out entirely.
A lawyer is going to go over your case when you consult with them, and they’ll determine whether you meet eligibility requirements or not. This can save you time, or it can get you into a case you didn’t know you had.
4. Guide You Toward the Appropriate Benefits
There are multiple types of workers’ comp benefits you can pursue, and your decision when applying can impact whether or not you get them.
A workers’ comp lawyer knows the ins and outs of the workers’ comp system in your state, and they can make sure you’re applying for the appropriate benefits.
5. Pursue a Lump-Sum Settlement
Sometimes, you don’t want payments paid out over time. You’d rather sacrifice a little bit of the potential earnings to make sure you get it all at one time with no issues.
One reason for this might be that you’re not sure you can get through a prolonged court battle. Maybe the case is a bit more complicated, and you’d rather not risk losing entirely when you could get a reasonable amount.
You’re a lot more likely to negotiate that if you have a workers’ compensation lawyer on your side.
6. Overcome Obstacles in the Courtroom
Sometimes, you have to deal with obstacles that might prevent you from being compensated. Maybe the court is demanding proof of something that you didn’t collect evidence of during the earlier parts of the situation, or maybe the other party is using an argument that is difficult to beat. Your lawyer is going to be your only hope of overcoming that.
7. Know When to Take a Settlement
Sometimes, if you’re entitled to a lot of money, the other party might attempt to get you to settle for far less than you deserve.
Your lawyer will be able to tell if that’s the case, and they can help you negotiate a better settlement or deny it entirely in favor of going for everything you’re owed.
8. Fight for the Maximum Benefits Owed
If you try to handle your workers’ comp case on your own, you’re not likely to know exactly what you’re owed, and you can easily accept less.
A workers’ comp lawyer knows the value of your case, and they can make sure you’re pursuing everything you’re entitled to.
9. Handle Insurance Representatives with Ease
When you go for workers’ comp, your employer’s insurance company is likely to stall payments and look for any excuse possible not to make funds available.
You won’t have to worry about contacting them or arguing with them if you have a workers’ comp lawyer by your side. The lawyer will handle that, and they’re equipped to expedite the process and make them do the right thing.
10. Appeal a Rejected Claim
Finally, you don’t always win a workers’ comp case. Maybe a mistake was made that made your case fall apart, or maybe the judge’s opinion wasn’t appropriate due to circumstances they didn’t understand. Anything can happen.
On your own, you are likely done. However, a workers’ comp lawyer can push for an appeal successfully. This can give you the second chance you need to present the right information and prove you deserve compensation.
This isn’t something that happens in every case. Sometimes, the lawyer might have to accept that your case just isn’t strong enough to win. It is an option that is highly beneficial when it’s relevant, though.
DeSalvo Law is Here to Help
Facing a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from an injury. At The Law Office of Scott D. DeSalvo, we are committed to providing the legal support you need to ensure you receive the benefits and compensation you’re entitled to. We not only specialize in workers’ compensation cases but also provide expert legal assistance for slip and fall injuries, construction accidents, and other personal injury claims. You can trust us to manage your case with care, expertly navigating the complexities on your behalf while fiercely advocating for your rights.
Don’t go through this process alone—let us help you secure the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.