According to national statistics slips, trips, and falls are some of the leading causes of job-related injuries and the number one cause of workers’ compensation claims. Slips, trips, and falls are also known as the most cited reason for missed workdays. If an employee is injured on the job, there are steps they need to take to protect their right to receive benefits. A skilled workers’ compensation attorney can help protect those rights of receiving all the benefits they are entitled to.
Statistics
According to national statistics, a little more than 20 percent of employees who are injured by slips, trips, or falls on the job miss a minimum of a month of work because of their injuries. This time of not working and not receiving a paycheck potentially means a financial struggle during this time. Even more tragic are those families whose loved one does not survive their injuries. Data shows that there is about $70 billion paid out each year in compensation benefits and medical expenses for workplace slip, trip, and fall accidents.
Legal Help
All insurance companies are in the business to make a profit. Anytime they are forced to pay out a claim, that cuts into their profit. This is also true for workers’ compensation insurance companies. So even when an employee is injured on the job, the workers’ compensation insurance company may still try to get out of paying the benefits that the injured worker is entitled to. Many companies try to deny a claim based on pre-existing conditions or claiming the injury occurred outside of work.
However, an injured worker should know that just because the insurance company has denied a claim, that doesn’t mean the employee won’t get what they are legally entitled to. A workers’ compensation attorney on the job from the beginning can help deter the insurance company from denying the claim or dragging their feet in processing the claim. If the company has denied the claim, the attorney can file the necessary documents to appeal that decision. In cases where the injury is permanent, an attorney can negotiate a settlement that will likely be higher than if the injured worker had to negotiate with the insurance company directly.
In some cases, there may also be a third-party lawsuit, which is separate from the workers’ compensation case. An attorney can evaluate your case and determine if this is a legal option you can also pursue.
Call a Workers Compensation Attorney Today
If you have been injured in a slip, trip, or fall accident at work, make sure you receive what you are entitled to under the law. Get more information about the right steps for your situation.