Note: Jenna’s story is a fictional scenario presented to help illustrate why someone would benefit from the help of a lawyer for a workers’ compensation claim.
To answer this question, let’s first define what workers’ compensation insurance is. “Workers’ comp” or “workman’s comp” ensures that employees who are injured on the job or contract an illness as a result of their work-related duties receive compensation for expenses like lost wages and medical bills.
Most Arkansas employers with three or more employees are required to carry this coverage. But navigating the claims process can be challenging, and that’s why hiring a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas can be critical to getting the benefits you deserve.
What should I do if I was injured or got sick because of my job?
There is a process to receiving these benefits. This includes:
- Reporting the incident to the employer
- Filing a claim within two years of the injury
- Completing forms and mailing them to the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission (AWCC)
The workers’ compensation process in Arkansas can seem daunting, and that’s where a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas comes into play.
With 41 different rules governing workers’ compensation claims under the AWCC, a specialized attorney can help you understand and navigate the system.
This is important because if any step is missed, it could negatively affect the outcome of your case. A workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas will ensure that everything is handled correctly and efficiently.
How can a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas help?
A workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas specializes in helping injured or sick employees receive the benefits they are entitled to under state law. They can assist you in several important ways:
- Advising you on your rights and what options are available to you according to Arkansas state laws.
- Ensuring that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations, avoiding any issues with deadlines that could result in a denial of your claim.
- Completing and filing all necessary paperwork on your behalf to ensure your claim is properly submitted to the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission.
- Protecting your rights throughout the process, so you receive the compensation you deserve without facing penalties or unfair treatment from your employer or their insurance company.
- Managing all ongoing aspects of your claim, including dealing with your employer and their insurance company, which can be particularly stressful if they try to deny or minimize your claim.
- If your employer or their insurance company disputes your claim, a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas can represent you throughout the appeals process. This may involve hearings or even court appearances to defend your right to compensation.
- Helping you gather critical evidence for your case, such as medical records, photos of the incident, witness statements, expert opinions, and proof that your injury or illness was work-related.
- Negotiating any potential settlements or helping resolve disputes through mediation or arbitration if necessary.
- Representing you in court if your case cannot be settled through negotiations.
Having a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas by your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving the compensation you need to recover.
Whether your employer or their insurance company disputes your claim or you need help understanding the process, an experienced attorney will ensure that all aspects of your case are handled professionally and efficiently, so you can focus on your recovery.
What types of injuries or illnesses does this insurance cover?
It’s important to understand that workers’ compensation covers a wide variety of injuries and illnesses, and no one has to be at fault for you to be eligible for benefits. The key is that your injury or illness must be work-related. Workers’ compensation attorneys in Arkansas often handle claims involving:
- Burns
- Sprains
- Fractures
- Hearing loss
- Back injuries
- Lifting injuries
- Carpal-tunnel syndrome
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
- Exposure to harmful substances
- Occupational diseases, including COVID-19
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Frostbite
- Rotator cuff tears
- Cervical and lumbar injuries
- Slips, trips, or falls
While this list includes common injuries, workers’ compensation also covers a wide range of other conditions. It’s important to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas to understand whether your particular injury or illness is eligible for compensation.
Accidents outside of work time, injuries that occur while violating safety policies, or engaging in illegal activity are generally not covered.
If your employer is claiming that your injury falls under one of these categories to deny your claim, a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas can fight for your rights and help prove otherwise.
Jenna’s story
Let’s consider a fictional scenario where hiring a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas made all the difference. Jenna works as an X-ray technician at a hospital where she was exposed to toxic levels of radiation.
Although she took all the safety precautions necessary, as per her training, she developed a disability due to the exposure, which led to missed work shifts and expensive medical appointments.
Jenna filed a workers’ compensation claim with her employer’s insurance, but her claim was denied. The employer argued that Jenna knew the risks involved in her job and was responsible for accepting them.
Jenna’s injury, however, was clearly work-related, and she had taken all necessary precautions. Despite this, her claim was unfairly denied. This is where a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas became essential.
Jenna hired a workers’ compensation attorney in Arkansas who helped her gather medical records and evidence showing that her disability was caused by job-related radiation exposure.
The attorney also handled communication with the insurance company, prepared for hearings, and fought for Jenna’s right to compensation. Thanks to her lawyer’s expertise, Jenna won her case and received the financial compensation she needed to cover her medical bills and lost wages.
Why choose The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook?
Workers’ compensation claims can be challenging, especially when dealing with employers or insurance companies that try to minimize or deny your claim. That’s why The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook are here to help you.
With over 60 years of combined experience, our team of workers’ compensation attorneys in Arkansas understands the complexities of these cases and knows how to fight for fair compensation.
We’re dedicated to making the process as smooth as possible for our clients, helping them focus on recovery while we handle the legal work.
If you or a loved one has been injured or become ill due to a job-related incident, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward receiving the benefits you deserve.
