Some careers are inherently more dangerous than others, like construction, offshore and shipping jobs, or manufacturing, but the truth is, even people working office jobs can get hurt or develop occupational illnesses while on the job. If you’ve been hurt at work, or if your working conditions have led to a work-related disease, like mesothelioma, carpal tunnel syndrome, or chronic back pain, you are probably eligible for workers’ compensation coverage through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. This covers your medical care and a partial wage replacement so you can pay your bills while you are out of work.
However, many people have difficulties getting the benefits they’re entitled to or are dismayed to see their valid claim denied by their employer. If you’re struggling to get your workers’ compensation benefits, seek the advice of a Virginia Beach, VA workers’ compensation lawyer. They can help you get the benefits and compensation you’re entitled to. Contact Barney Injury Law today for a free consultation.
Virginia Workers’ Compensation – What You Should Know
Almost all Virginia employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, an employer-paid benefit for workers who get hurt on the job or develop a work-related illness. These benefits are free to you and are effective the very first day you start working. The purpose of this benefit is twofold:
- Provide access to high-quality medical care and a stipend while the worker is recovering
- Prevent businesses from being sued by injured workers
If you are unable to continue in the line of work you were doing before getting hurt and must take a lower-paying job or work part-time, then you are eligible for additional benefits, like vocational re-training or a disability schedule stipend.
All employers in Virginia (with a very few exceptions) must carry workers’ comp. If your employer doesn’t have it, then a lawyer can help you take the next steps for compensation, like filing a lawsuit.
What Does A Virginia Beach Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Do?
What happens when you’re not getting the coverage you deserve or if your employer contests a claim you filed? You may be ill or hurt, unable to work, forced onto part-time or light duty, and worried about how to pay your bills. This is where we come in.
Some employers may try to evade paying for full workers’ compensation coverage, especially if the injury is serious and requires surgery or if you develop a chronic medical condition or progressive illness. They may try to blame you for the accident or claim that the illness was a pre-existing condition or not caused by your working conditions.
If this happens, a workers’ compensation attorney can help you assert your rights, including filing an appeal before the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission Board. Your lawyer can draft the appeal and present it to the Board on your behalf.
Call Today For Personalized Legal Advice
If your workers’ comp claim was minimized or denied, or if you are having trouble getting your wage stipend, contact Barney Injury Law for a free consultation. A Virginia Beach workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm can explain the legal options open to you and handle all the legal paperwork and communication with the other party so you can focus on your recovery and getting back to work. Call us today for a complimentary case review.
