Whether you sustained an on-the-job injury or illness, you may wish to know that your medical bills and lost wages are covered. The workers’ comp system in Virginia is a lifeline for any injured employees. However, obtaining the benefits you deserve can be challenging. This is the reason you should consult with a Virginia Beach workers’ comp attorney who is prepared to defend your rights and take care of the details of your compensation claim.
Can You Handle Your Claim on Your Own?
Although the law does not require you to hire an attorney to handle your workers’ comp claim, it may be in your best interest to do so. Having an attorney on your side is especially important if suffered a serious injury or condition while doing your job and you cannot go to work because of this.
Dealing with workers’ compensation is not always easy, so it’s a great idea to talk to an attorney after a workplace accident. Workers’ comp benefits may cover your medical care and give disability payments as you recover from your condition. However, just because you file a claim does not mean you are guaranteed benefits.
What a Lawyer Can Do
Having a seasoned workers’ comp attorney on your side can provide you with the following benefits:
- Reduced chances of denial. Should your employer and their insurer question the severity of your injuries and drag their feet, you may need to wait weeks or even months to get benefits. Your attorney can build a strong case for you and get your workers’ comp claim approved quickly.
- Help with medical attention. Your attorney can help you receive the necessary medical treatment from an authorized doctor. Also, they can collect evidence of disability, ensuring you get the full benefits you are entitled to.
- Assistance with the appeals process. Should the workers’ comp insurance company of your employer deny your claim, your lawyer can help you appeal the decision. They will collect additional evidence, so you can eventually obtain the benefits you are owed.
When to Hire an Attorney
It is important to consult with a worker’s comp attorney as soon as possible following a workplace injury. If you require emergency medical treatment, you must prioritize this. Then, contact a lawyer or have somebody else do so.
Your workers’ comp case starts from the time you sustained an injury. Whatever you say or do following the injury can affect your claim. Your lawyer can guide you through this process, so you can avoid delays or denials.
