Injuries or illnesses suffered at work may leave an individual with many questions. However, the most crucial revolve around workers’ comp. Employers must ensure that their workplace is a safe environment. You can seek compensation if you suffer harm due to your employer’s negligent actions. These include medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, pain, suffering, etc.

Keep in mind that workers’ comp laws differ by state. Indiana has its unique set of steps that must be followed to file a claim.  The local compensation board (WCB), comprising six single hearing members and a chairperson, handles compensation disputes between workers and employers or their insurance. That said, navigating the legal process can be stressful.

It’s always best to retain the services of an experienced workers’ comp lawyer such as Klezmer Maudlin workers’ comp lawyers. These professionals understand the intricacies of workers’ comp claims and can help you assert your rights.  Some of the services they provide include:

Legal Advice

The laws regarding worker’s compensation are complex, even for individuals with a passion for legal topics. Several issues could factor into your case, complicating it to some degree. For example, while trying negotiations first is always best, some cases could benefit greatly from a hearing. So how do you decide which avenue to pursue?

That’s where an experienced workers compensation lawyer attorney comes in. With their experience in such matters, they can advise on what to do. Get as much information as possible during the consultation stage.

Gathering Evidence

You must provide evidence to support your claim to receive workers’ compensation benefits. This may include medical records, witness statements, and other documentation. Evidence is crucial in a workers’ compensation case. Your attorney can help you gather this evidence and ensure that it’s presented in a way that supports your case.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often focus on minimizing costs, making receiving fair compensation for your injuries challenging, especially if you represent yourself in the negotiations. They’ll want to take advantage of your armature negotiation skills and lowball the offer or even invent some stupid reason for denying your claim. Lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

Representing You Before the WCB

If your case goes to the Indiana WCB, you’ll want an experienced attorney with experience in trying cases. They can also help you understand the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. They’ll also represent you in the hearings and argue your case clearly and compellingly. This will ensure that the board considers your petition seriously and has a medium of communication back to you.

Appealing a Ruling

Once the hearing has concluded, the individual in charge will draft and provide an award to the parties involved. The award will detail any agreed-upon stipulations, findings, and conclusions of the law that were determined.  If you are unsatisfied with the award, you can always file an appeal with the board.

The board will schedule a hearing, typically within 90 days. It is important to understand that award appeals are not fresh hearings; instead, they involve legal arguments made by both sides to the entire board. The local WCB handled over 70,000 workers’ comp cases in 2020. The average award, including medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses, totaled $22,719.

Emotional Support

Suffering an injury at work can be a traumatic experience. But pursuing a claim is an additional emotional and physical burden. The process can take several months and might hit roadblocks. You may even lose hope, but your lawyer will intervene and keep you on track.

A good workers’ comp lawyer will be there for you throughout the process. They will offer support and guidance. They can also help you connect with resources and support networks that can assist you during your recovery. Stable legal representation allows you to rest easy and receive routine notifications.