Each year, countless employees get hurt while doing their jobs and find themselves unable to work. Most of these employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical care and disability. Victims need an experienced attorney to counter the insurance company’s efforts to deny or underpay claims.
Injured at Work?
Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers are prepared to help you file a claim or appeal if the insurance company already denied your claim.
Working with an experienced law firm like Massey & Associates, P.C. helps protect your rights and may increase your chances of recovering all the compensation you need.
Our lawyers have helped numerous employees secure benefits, and we represent work injury victims at no upfront cost. An initial legal consultation is also free. We are ready to take your call 24/7.
Who is Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Tennessee?
Workers’ compensation covers most full and part-time employees in the state. Tennessee requires every employer with at least five employees to purchase coverage. State and local governments and those who employ domestic help or farm labor are exempt from this requirement.
Construction companies are required to carry coverage, even if they do not employ five people. However, construction companies can apply for an exemption from workers’ comp coverage.
The state requires every employer subject to the workers’ compensation law to display a document telling employees what to do after a work injury.
If you were injured at work and your employer is required to have coverage, our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyer is ready to help you pursue your claim. We can answer your legal questions during a free consultation.
What Workplace Injuries Qualify for Benefits?
If you were injured while engaged in work-related activity, and your employer is required to have workers’ compensation, you should be eligible for benefits.
Full or part-time employees can also seek compensation for illnesses caused by exposure to toxic substances and repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
You might be concerned about your eligibility if you were partially or fully at fault for the accident that caused your injury. However, workers’ compensation is no-fault coverage. You can obtain benefits regardless of who is at fault.
That said, if you were injured by engaging in a prank or horseplay, or after starting a fight with another employee, you are probably ineligible for coverage. However, if you were the victim of a fight or prank, you would likely still be eligible for coverage.
Unsure about your eligibility for benefits? Contact Massey & Associates, P.C. today.
What Benefits Can I Receive for My Workplace Injury?
Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers help work injury victims secure coverage for their medical care and lost wages. The insurance company will pay for medical care from your authorized treating physician for as long as he or she deems it necessary.
This may include emergency care, but only if there is an immediate need for care that is reasonable and necessary. You can also seek reimbursement for mileage if you must travel more than 15 miles in one direction for care.
Work injury victims can also seek compensation for disability caused by the accident, including:
Temporary Disability
- Temporary partial disability: These are for workers who can return to the job on light duty. Temporary partial disability benefits are 66 and two-thirds of the difference between your average weekly wage and your gross light duty wages.
- Temporary total disability: These are for employees who cannot work at all during their recovery. These start on your eighth day of disability. If you are disabled for 14 days or more, you can receive benefits for those first eight days.
Permanent Disability
- Permanent partial disability: This is for workers who have a permanent impairment that limits their ability to work.
- Permanent total disability: This is for workers who are totally disabled and will not be able to return to any job.
Death Benefits
- Wage replacement: If the worker had no dependents, the deceased’s estate will receive $20,000. If there is a surviving spouse or dependent children, they will receive 66 and two-thirds percent of the worker’s average weekly wage.
- Burial costs: If the fatal injury occurred on or after May 19, 2017, the benefit is $10,000.
Can Independent Contractors Get Workers’ Comp Benefits?
No, independent contractors cannot obtain workers’ compensation benefits. This insurance is reserved for employees.
What if I Was Injured Away From Work?
Workers’ compensation coverage often extends beyond the physical boundaries of your usual workplace. If you were performing job-related activities, you might still be covered.
How Do I Report My Injury?
Tell your supervisor right away. Once you report your injury, your employer is obligated to help you get the medical care you need.
Can I Go to My Usual Doctor for Medical Care?
No, you must choose from a panel of three physicians selected by your employer. The doctor you choose is known as an Authorized Treating Physician (ATP).
My Claim Was Denied – What Should I Do Now?
- If your employer or their insurance company denies medical care, you or your lawyer can file for a utilization review.
- If your claim is denied or you think you are entitled to more compensation, you can file for a hearing in the Court of Workers’ Compensation Claims.
- If you disagree with the decision of the court, you can appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board or even the Tennessee Supreme Court.
Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers are prepared to manage every step of your appeal.
Call Your Chattanooga Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
If you were injured at work in Chattanooga or the surrounding area, contacting a lawyer is a critical step in protecting your rights. Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers have the resources and legal know-how to pursue full compensation for medical costs and lost wages, and we charge no upfront fees.
Our office is conveniently located just a few minutes away from the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport.
Learn more about your options after a workplace injury: [firm-phone-number]
