Ponchatoula Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Suffering a workplace injury means you could miss significant time at work and lose valuable income. Additionally, depending on the severity of the accident, you could be left permanently disabled and unable to return to work. In most cases, the time off, medical bills, prescription drug costs, and other expenses necessary for your recovery can quickly add up.
If you suffer injuries while on the job, you should consult with a Ponchatoula workers’ compensation lawyer. With the assistance of a local personal injury attorney, you can discuss the rights and remedies available to you, and the best means to seek financial compensation for your losses.
What is Workers’ Comp?
Workers’ compensation has a two-fold purpose. First, it is a no-fault form of liability that acts as a deal between an employer and an employee. For employees, it is a form of insurance that can replace their wages after a workplace injury. This serves as a positive alternative to litigation, which could take an injured employee longer to receive financial compensation. In exchange, the employee relinquishes their right to sue their employer for negligence.
Virtually all employers in the state must secure compensation for their employees’ injuries via workers’ compensation or a few other insurance forms according to Louisiana Revised Statutes 23:1168. Any business that attempts to avoid this obligation by providing false information is under L.A. Rev. Stat. §12:1168(2)(C), subject to state perjury laws.
Claim Process for Obtaining Workers’ Compensation
The first step an injured worker should take is informing their employer of their injuries. If an employee fails to notify their employer of their injuries within 30 days, they risk losing their benefits. An individual can report their injuries to a foreman, supervisor, or other authority. The notice typically should be provided in writing and include the:
- Employee’s name and contact information
- Time and date of the accident
- Location of the incident
- How the injury happened
- The area of all bodily wounds
After providing notice, the employer files a First Report of Injury form with their workers’ comp insurer. An employer must complete this form within ten days, and this initiates the claim.
Under state law, workers may choose their doctor to treat their injuries. It is important to note that a person cannot switch their doctor without the approval of the carrier . Failure to get this approval may result in a denial of benefits. A skilled Ponchatoula lawyer can help an injured employee through the workers’ compensation claim process.
When Can a Worker File a Dispute?
If an individual’s workers’ comp claim is denied, a Ponchatoula lawyer can help this person file a claim. An attorney can assist the plaintiff in filing a Dispute Claim for Compensation form and potentially pursue financial payouts for medical claims or lost wages. Whether a plaintiff should request a mediation conference or proceed directly to a formal dispute should be discussed with their workers’ comp attorney.
Consult with a Ponchatoula Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you sustained injuries in a workplace accident and are considering filing a claim or recently had your case denied, you should consult with a Ponchatoula workers’ compensation lawyer. A local attorney can work with you to help you receive the financial compensation you need. Contact our office today to discuss your situation and what options are available to you.