Getting hurt at work could lead to expensive medical treatment, lengthy physical therapy, costly rehabilitation, and other damages. Workers’ compensation programs are designed to cover damages related to your injuries for medical care, wage loss, permanent impairment and other expenses you incur related to your injuries. The benefits also compensate families of workers killed on the job.
Notably, the workers’ compensation program is supposed to be a hassle-free system that automatically gives you the benefits you are entitled to. However, this is rarely the case, as insurance companies and employers do everything they can to reduce or avoid paying your benefits unless they absolutely must.
Retaining an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Virginia is a smart way to obtain the benefits you deserve while focusing on recovery. At Renfro & Renfro, PLLC, our attorneys have vast experience dealing with insurance companies. In fact, we used to represent them! Now we take our insider knowledge of how insurance companies work and use it to fight for your rights and maximize your compensation.
6 Reasons Why It Is Critical To Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Ensure You Meet All Requirements
You must meet Virginia’s legal requirements and conditions to file a claim for your benefits successfully. Although most employees are entitled to workers’ compensation, there are some exceptions regarding eligibility. For instance, there are special rules regarding some employee categories, such as temp agency employees, domestic workers, realtors, independent contractors and seasonal workers. An experienced lawyer can help determine your eligibility after reviewing your case. They will also help you meet Virginia’s legal requirements, such as:
- proving that you are an employee covered by the Virginia workers comp Act;
- proving that you suffered a work-related accident or occupational disease;
- proving that your injury arose out of and in the course of your employment, and
- assessing and challenging any defenses asserted by the insurance company.
Help Pursue the Right Benefits
An experienced workers’ comp attorney from Renfro & Renfro, PLLC can determine the benefits you qualify for. For instance, if a doctor’s report reveals you can return to your duties after recovery, you could be eligible for medical benefits to cover your medical bills and lost wages during your recovery but not vocational benefits. After getting a settlement offer from the workers’ compensation insurer, an attorney can review it to ensure it adequately covers your needs and future expenses. In this regard, they will negotiate with the insurer on your behalf to secure the maximum settlement possible.
Fight Coverage Disputes
In some cases, your employer or their insurance company may dispute the extent of your injury, the cause of the injury, or the need for specific medical treatments. An attorney can litigate on your behalf to ensure you obtain the medical care and compensation you deserve. Besides, if you believe your employer has retaliated against you or discriminated against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim, an attorney can help protect your rights and seek appropriate remedies.
Negotiate With the Employer’s Insurer
Just because you are eligible and have filed your claim doesn’t automatically mean you will get your benefits. When filing a claim, you have to deal with the employer’s insurance, and this process is rarely smooth. As mentioned earlier, insurance adjusters go out of their way to reduce your claim or even refuse the benefits you are entitled to. A workers’ compensation lawyer can negotiate with the employer and their insurer and help tackle any challenges and obstacles the insurer may throw your way.
Can File an Appeal on Your Behalf
If the insurer refuses to pay the benefits at each stage of your claim process, you may need to file an appeal. This process is often complex and time-consuming. Workers’ compensation attorneys leverage their expertise and knowledge to tackle the insurance’s defense attorneys in court. They will collect evidence, including witness statements, and build a solid case that yields maximum compensation.
Your Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Comp Insurance
Although your employer is legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, some don’t. If you sustained an injury at work and realize your employer lacks the appropriate insurance program, you must immediately consult an attorney. In such a scenario, a workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand the best legal options you may be entitled to.
Hire an Experienced Virginia Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Dealing with a workplace injury can be stressful, especially if you also face financial strain due to medical bills and lost wages. Having an attorney by your side to handle all the legal aspects can provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
At Renfro & Renfro, PLLC, our experienced Virginia workers’ compensation attorneys will fight for your rights and ensure you receive the medical care and compensation you deserve. Call us today at (804) 601-4433 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let our team guide you through your claim and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
We look forward to serving you!
