Representing
clients in Oregon and California
If
you are reading this, you have probably been hurt on the
job and are having a problem getting the benefits you
believe you deserve. Most workers' comp laws are created
to protect the employer and reduce their costs, so it
is often difficult to be treated fairly.
If
you've been hurt on the job, you may be eligible for workers'
comp benefits. Most work related injuries involved four
basic types of benefits:
- Medical
Treatment - Your insurance company pays for a doctor
to treat you and get you back to work.
- Temporary
Disability - If your doctor says you can't work,
you may get a 2/3 portion of your normal wages while
you are healing.
- Permanent
Disability - If you have a permanent limitation
or restriction that affects your ability to work you
may be eligible for permanent disability. This usually
takes the form of a one-time payment.
- Vocational
Rehabilitation - If you can't return to your job
at all, and your employer can't change your job, you
may be eligible for vocational assistance.
Workers'
Compensation benefits usually restrict your ability to
sue your employer. Now, there are certain situations where
you can file a lawsuit. They usually involve situations
where someone other than your employer is at fault for
your injury.
If
your injury fits this criteria, it is critical that you
contact an attorney IMMEDIATELY. Strict "statutes
of limitations" apply to most of these situations, so
if you don't act, you may LOSE your right to pursue legal
action. If you would like a free, no cost, no obligation
review of your current situation, please click
here.
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WORKER'S COMPENSATION
Why
was my claim denied?
Usually this is because your employer's doctor said your
injury was NOT work-related or was a PRE-EXISTING condition.
This is where things can get very complicated and legal
advice is important. Remember, your employer and their insurance
company want to limit what they pay; they are not necessarily
focused on helping you recover.
What
if I don't agree with the doctor's report?
You can select your own treating doctor by just notifying
the insurance company. You can change treating doctors two
times.
When
should I retain an attorney?
You can seek legal help at any time, but if your claim has
been denied it is important that you get legal advice.
Are
there time limits for filing claims? Yes, you must
file within 90 days of your injury. You should file immediately
because any delay will be used to discredit your claim.
