Catoosa County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

When someone suffers an injury at work, a caring attorney could help them receive the benefits he or she is entitled to. Ideally, coverage would be automatic following an on-the-job accident, but the insurance companies distributing this benefit often try to deny legitimate claims.

If you were hurt at work or contracted a work-related illness, a Catoosa County workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys could help make sure you are submitting a thorough application that will give you the greatest chance of success.

What is Covered in Catoosa County?

All Catoosa County employers with three or more employees must have workers’ compensation insurance coverage. These policies are meant to cover payment for medical expenses, temporary income loss, and other benefits. Permanent losses such as disfigurement, scaring, or lost functionality in other parts of the body may also be covered, depending on the nature of the case and severity of the injury.

After sustaining an injury, workers in Catoosa County have a 30-day time limit from the date of the accident to file a claim. While there are exceptions, an injured individual should try and pursue an action within this timeframe to avoid a denial.

Limits to Recovery

While these benefits are helpful, there are limits on the amounts and types of recovery available. Only two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wages are generally covered, with a maximum amount of $575 per week.

This is true even if the victim is permanently out of work and unable to earn any wages. It also does not allow an injured employee to recover damages that are available in other types of injury cases. This includes compensation for pain and suffering, inconvenience, or punitive damages. A knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer in Catoosa County can help assess the information of a victim’s injury to see what could be covered.

Options for Third Party Claims

Third party-claims can be a way of seeking further recovery for an injury beyond a traditional claim. If parties other than the employer may have also been responsible for a workplace injury, the injured worker may be able to file one of these claims. For example, if a defective product or a contractor caused an injury, a third-party civil lawsuit may be an option.

Disputing and Appealing Denied Workers’ Compensation Actions

If a compensation claim is denied, the claimant may request a hearing to dispute the denial from the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. In the hearing, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will consider testimony, medical records, and other evidence to decide whether the claim was unfairly denied.

Regardless of the outcome of this hearing, both parties have the right to file an appeal. They can do this within 20 days of the ALJ’s initial decision. Here, any evidence and information will be put under further review to reach a decision.

How a Catoosa County Workers’ Compensation Attorney Could Help

If you were injured at work, an experienced Catoosa County workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help. An attorney could advise you about your legal rights regarding filing an action, appealing a denied claim, bringing possible third-party claims, and other legal options.

You should not be forced to worry to choose between your health and financial stability. Call us today for a consultation.