Every worker in Iowa can get workers’ compensation benefits if they get hurt on the job. However, many workers find themselves mired in a complex system or fighting an uphill battle against an employer or insurance company that wants to deny them coverage.
While you can apply for workers’ compensation benefits on your own, many people hire an attorney to handle their claim. Trying to handle the claim without professional legal support will make the entire process harder for you as the claimant.
What are some of the reasons why people bring in lawyers when they need workers’ compensation?
They understand how dangerous stress can be
Whether you have a repetitive motion injury from gripping tools all day or a back injury from helping a patient get off their bed, your body needs time to heal. Until you recover, you may not be able to work or may only be capable of performing reduced job functions.
Trying to navigate complicated workers’ compensation paperwork or an appeal while your body heals itself could be a big mistake. Emotional or mental stress has a negative impact on your immune system and could impact how long it takes you to recover. Bringing in an attorney means that your recovery is your main focus, while the lawyer handles the stressful paperwork and legal matters.
They want to avoid simple mistakes
A lot of denied claims are the result of inadequate evidence or technical mistakes with state forms. You can protect yourself from these risks by having a lawyer fill out the paperwork and validate all of the medical or workplace evidence you use in your appeal. Their familiarity with workers’ compensation will drastically reduce the likelihood of basic errors.
They don’t want to negotiate
Negotiating with an insurance company can be really difficult to do. Adjusters often have special training on how to manipulate people and reduce what they ultimately pay on valid claims. Especially if you intend to settle your claim because it involves a permanent injury, having someone who understands negotiation in your corner can make a big difference.
Bringing in professional help when you need workers’ compensation benefits may improve your chances of success and make the entire process less stressful.