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Should I get a lawyer for my workers’ compensation claim in Arkansas?

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Note: Justin and Anna’s stories are fictional scenarios presented to help illustrate the role particular circumstances may play in someone’s decision to retain legal counsel for their workers’ compensation claim.

Should I get a lawyer for my workers’ compensation claim in Arkansas? This is a question many injured workers face after experiencing a job injury or illness.

Navigating the complexities of a workers’ compensation claim can be challenging, and having the right legal support can make all the difference.

In this article, we will outline workers’ compensation laws in Arkansas, explain when you may benefit from a workers’ compensation lawyer, and describe how The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook can help injured workers secure the compensation insurance and benefits they deserve.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Laws in Arkansas

Workers’ compensation, sometimes called “workman’s comp,” is a form of compensation insurance that employers may be required to carry. This insurance provides benefits to employees injured at work or those who contract a job-related illness. Filing a workers’ compensation claim ensures that injured workers receive compensation for lost wages, coverage for medical expenses, and potential disability benefits.

In Arkansas, most businesses with three or more employees must have workers’ compensation insurance. Arkansas workers’ compensation laws require employers to file claims on behalf of employees who experience a workplace injury or illness. However, some exceptions exist. Ultimately, employers are responsible for obtaining and maintaining this insurance to protect employees.

Should I Get a Lawyer for My Workers’ Compensation Claim in Arkansas?

The decision to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer is personal and depends on several factors. If you’re filing a workers’ compensation claim for a minor injury with full cooperation from your employer, legal assistance may not be necessary. However, if complications arise, seeking guidance from a law firm experienced in Arkansas workers’ compensation cases can be invaluable.

A workers’ comp lawyer can assist if:

  • Your claim is denied by your employer or the insurance company.
  • Workers’ compensation benefits are delayed or paid partially.
  • A workplace injury or illness affects your ability to work.
  • Your case involves Social Security benefits, and you need to ensure your settlement does not reduce your disability payments.
  • You face retaliation at work for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
  • You want to pursue additional compensation outside of workers’ compensation, such as a third-party lawsuit.

The following scenarios illustrate different circumstances that can arise when filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Justin’s Story

Justin is a construction worker who sustained a minor abrasion on his arm while on-site. It required a few stitches.

He told his boss about the incident and left work for the emergency room. He knew the ER bill would be hefty and that his company had workers’ compensation insurance.

After receiving medical attention, he asked his employer to file a claim. Justin’s employer agreed that this injury was work-related, so she filed a claim.

The insurance company paid Justin’s medical bills without pushback. He was back at work soon after the injury. Throughout this process, he did not think getting a lawyer was necessary because the case was simple, the injury was mild, and his employer willingly complied by taking immediate action on his behalf.

Anna’s Story

Anna works as a chef at a restaurant in Little Rock. Late one night, she was working in the kitchen on a new dish. It was past closing time, so all the other employees had left.

She started feeling weak and dizzy, so she laid down and called for help. When her friend arrived, he found her lying on the floor, unconscious. She was rushed to the hospital, and they later discovered high levels of carbon monoxide in her system.

Once Anna reported the incident to the restaurant owner, he suggested that the leak may have happened somewhere other than work, such as her home. The extent of her illness caused her to miss months of work, so she lost a lot of income during her recovery. Medical costs were through the roof because they had to put her on a ventilator.

Anna retained a lawyer to prove the CO detectors in her home were working correctly and that the restaurant’s detectors were faulty, making the employer liable for the cause of her illness.

She also asked her legal counsel to help her pursue payment for the additional damages: lost wages, medical bills, and disability benefits for residual symptoms.

How Can The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook Help?

At The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook, our workers’ compensation lawyers have over 40 years of experience helping injured workers in Arkansas.

We understand the intricacies of filing a workers’ compensation claim and can assist with gathering evidence, completing paperwork, and meeting deadlines.

If your claim is denied, our law firm can help you appeal the decision and negotiate with the insurance company to secure the benefits you deserve.

Our legal team also represents clients during hearings and trials. If necessary, we will advocate for you in front of the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission, ensuring your case is presented effectively.

Whether you need assistance with medical expenses, lost wages, or fighting an unfair employer, we provide free consultations to evaluate your case.

Conclusion

If you’ve been injured at work or are dealing with an illness caused by your job, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. Even if your case seems straightforward like Justin’s, consulting with a workers’ comp lawyer can provide peace of mind.

The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook offers free consultations to help you determine the best course of action for your Arkansas workers’ compensation claim.

Don’t let the insurance company or your employer diminish the compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm today to ensure you receive the full workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to for your job injury or illness.