Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers have the answers
Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers know that one in two people are denied workers compensation the first time. To avoid this it will be a smart decision to talk with a workers compensation lawyer first. Call a trusted firm near you to talk with a lawyer who can help you have the best case for court.
Back pain is one of the most common complaints of people over the age of 30. Whether a result of a physically demanding job or the consequence of sitting for 8 hours a day, every day, thousands of people across the U.S. file for workers compensation because of back pain. Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers will likely inform you that many claims are successful after the first time filing; however, it is equally common for an employer to contest the claim. When this happens you will need to file an appeal and prove that your back injury arose as a result of your job and not an unrelated factor.
If you have injured your back while working, you may qualify for workers compensation. To save you time, and ensure you get maximum damages, we recommend you to call a workers compensation lawyer who understands back related injuries.
Suffering a Work Related Back Injury
The back is extremely strong, yet can be injured from moving the wrong way, lifting a heavy object, sitting or standing for long hours, falling, and so forth. Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers know all too well that injuries that may qualify for workers compensation include, but are not limited to:
- Muscle fiber tear
- Ligament tear
- Slipped/herniated disc
- Pinched nerve
- Spondylolysis/Spondylolisthesis
- Lumbar strain/sprain
- Broken back
- Severed spinal cord
Depending on the severity of the back injury, a doctor may recommend you take a few weeks off from work to a few months or more. Serious injuries could result in long term or permanent disability. In general the more severe the injury is, the better it will be to contact a workers compensation lawyer. This is especially true when the injury could impact the rest of your life. Call Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers to learn more about your legal options.
After an On the Job Accident
Workers compensation is available in every state, but the process and rules can vary. Although most people qualify for workers compensation, some will not. If you’re unsure about qualifying, you can talk with your employer, call your State Board of Workers Compensation, or speak to a workers compensation lawyer.
Once you’re ready to file a claim, the following steps may need to be completed
- Seek medical treatment.
- Notify your employer of the injury or condition. This should be done as soon as possible; do not delay.
- Fill out the necessary paperwork
- Wait for the insurance company to evaluate your claim. This can take up to one month or more.
- Be prepared to provide medical evidence.
- Wait for a letter of approval or denial. If you’ve been denied, you will need to file an appeal.
- After filing an appeal, a hearing will need to be requested with the State Board.
Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers know that being denied is unfortunately common, especially when the insurance company may have to pay out a large sum of money. A workers compensation lawyer is equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate the appeals process. Furthermore a lawyer may have established connections with expert witnesses, like orthopedic doctors, who can verify your back injury. During the appeal a judge will review your case and any evidence. After which he or she will make a final decision on your claim.
Receiving Treatment While You Wait
Many back injuries require timely care. If you are awaiting your initial letter of request for workers compensation or the outcome of an appeal, you may still want to continue with medical treatment. It will be a good idea to receive treatment from a doctor who is approved by your employer. If you choose a physician outside of this list, you may not be able to recover your expenses.
Wheaton, MD workers compensation lawyers can explain this, and more, to you during your consultation.
Call Cohen & Cohen today if any of the above conditions apply to you.
