Workers often have doubts and questions related to workers compensation that only an expert can answer.
The workers’ compensation system safeguards the interests of employees injured in the workplace. It provides for medical expenses and disability benefits in case the employee has been rendered incapable of returning to work. A lot of confusion prevails among injured workers as regards to workers compensation. Kansas City Missouri workers compensation lawyers have provided answers to some common questions concerning workers compensation benefits.
What Injuries Are Covered by Missouri Workers Compensation?
To be eligible for workers compensation, the injury, mental illness, occupational disease or death must result from an accident or exposure to hazards at the workplace.
Am I Eligible to Receive Workers Compensation Benefits for Repetitive Motion Injuries?
If the injury has resulted from consistent and repeated physical movement of certain parts of the body such as an ankle or fingers while performing normal work activities, the injured worker may be eligible for workers compensation benefits. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common repetitive stress injury that is eligible for workers compensation.
My Work-Related Injury Has Aggravated a Pre-Existing Condition. Can I Make a Claim for Workers Compensation?
If a worker suffers an injury to a previously injured part of the body, they may be eligible for workers compensation irrespective of whether the existing injury was work-related or not. Also, if the workplace accident aggravates a pre-existing condition, the worker may still be entitled workers compensation benefits.
Do I Need to File a Workers Compensation Claim Within a Specified Period of Time?
Under Missouri workers compensation law, the injured worker should file a written injury report within thirty days of the date of the accident. The worker should provide details such as date and cause of injury, nature of the injury, and all the contact details. Any delay will jeopardize the chances of getting compensation.
Do I Need to Provide a Recorded Statement to My Employer or the Workers Compensation Insurance Company?
Kansas City Missouri workers compensation lawyers strongly advise against giving any recorded statement to the employer or insurance company.
What if the Work-Related Injury Occurred As a Result of Working on Defective Equipment or In an Automobile Accident?
If someone other than the employer is responsible for the work-related injury, the worker can file a lawsuit and claim substantial damages.
Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Claim for Workers Compensation?
It is not mandatory to have a lawyer to claim workers compensation. However, a lawyer can educate the injured worker on his rights and help navigate the complexities of the system. The lawyer’s services will be indispensable in case the injured worker decides to file a dispute.
If you have any other queries related to your workers’ compensation case, please contact The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (816) 399-3706. We will help you at every step of the claim process and will ensure that you get the benefits that you deserve.
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