You are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if you are bedridden or have astronomical medical bills because of a work-related physical or medical impairment. The last thing you should do is accept the settlement the insurance company offers without argument. If you disagree with the settlement amount, you can:
- Negotiate a new settlement or,
- Attend a hearing where a judge will settle your dispute.
In either case, having experienced Antioch workers’ comp lawyers can prove invaluable.
Why You Should Hire a Lawyer Before Settling
Some of the best reasons why you should hire a workers’ comp attorney include the following:
They Can Determine Your Case’s Worth
A workers’ comp attorney can determine your case’s worth, something the insurance company doesn’t want. This includes the number of benefits you should get based on:
- The extent of your injuries and how they have affected your life.
- Your previous wages.
- Past medical expenses along with future medical treatments.
- If you have a permanent disability, and if yes, its extent.
- If your employer owes you salary, benefits, and penalties for late payments.
They Can Negotiate The Best Settlement
Antioch workers’ comp lawyers know how to negotiate for the best settlements from insurance companies. Whether you get a low ball or ‘final offer’, they will not back down till you have reached a reasonable settlement. They are also more likely to get into productive negotiations with insurance companies than individuals who act alone.
They Will Ensure Your Settlement Terms Are Clear and Cover Future Expenses
Your attorney will also ensure that the settlement terms are noted down accurately to prevent issues in the future. For instance, if you need to use your disability benefits down the line, a shoddy agreement can cost you hundreds and even thousands of dollars per month. Your attorney can determine a realistic estimate that can cover future medical costs.
The wording in the agreement is quite critical. Hidden clauses and certain agreements can cost you money in the long run. Your attorney can spot potential pitfalls in the agreement and have them rectified or removed.
They Can Fight For You If Your Claim Is Denied
If the insurance company denies your claim, your attorney can fight to get the decision reversed. Whether your claim is denied because of ‘insufficient evidence,’ “inadequate documentation” or because they say your injuries are not work-related, your attorney can help with the appeals process. This includes taking specific steps to strengthen your case and create a better claim.
Even if your case was denied, you could have a strong chance in court with Antioch workers’ comp lawyers in your corner. The insurance company will try and contest your claim. At that point, you need some serious firepower that workers’ comp attorneys can give you.
The bottom line is that the insurance company doesn’t have your best interests are heart, but your attorney does. Relying on a judge without a lawyer representing you is not wise either. Your employer and the insurance company will not think twice before hiring their attorney either.
Contact Our Antioch Workers’ Comp Lawyers At the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens for a Consultation
At The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, we have been fighting for the rights of injured workers for more than two decades. If you, your colleague, or someone else you know has suffered a workplace injury and cannot get workers’ comp benefits, contact us for a consultation today. We will evaluate the claim and determine the best strategy to ensure a positive outcome.
