Workers’ comp benefits are designed to provide you with the funds you need to cover medical expenses and lost wages if you’re injured or become ill due to work-related activities. However, your claim is not guaranteed to be approved, and you may not be awarded the maximum amount you’re entitled to. In addition, another party could be partly liable for your condition, which is why there are several reasons to hire an experienced lawyer to handle your case.

Here are some of the top ways it will benefit you to seek legal counsel when filing a workers’ comp claim:

• Prevent Errors Resulting in Denial: Applying for worker’s comp benefits can be a complex process. There are specific forms that must be filled out and different types of documentation that should be submitted to support your claim. Having a lawyer assist you with this will ensure your paperwork is error-free, filed according to the deadline, and contains all the evidence necessary to get an approval.

• Protect Your Rights & Fight Denied Claims: Without a legal background, you may be unaware of all your rights, making it difficult to challenge an adjuster who is treating you unfairly. A lawyer will make sure your rights aren’t violated as they fight to get the benefits your claim is worth. If the claim gets denied, they will also help you through the appeals process to give you the best chance of overturning the decision for a favorable outcome.
• Assess the Situation for Third Party Liability: In some cases, a job-related injury or illness may be attributed to the negligence of a third party. This offers the potential to file a civil lawsuit in addition to collecting workers’ comp benefits. A lawyer will know how to address these particular cases and move forward in compliance with the law.

The right lawyer can make all the difference in how your workers’ comp case turns out. This is why the residents of O’Fallon, MO, trust Attorney David Schmidt of Woodlawn Law Offices to guide them through the filing process and provide effective representation for any issues that may arise. Since 1991, he has helped victims of work accidents recover the damages they deserve. Contact his office by calling (636) 240-6667, or visit him online for additional information.