When it comes to workplace injuries, some people think that they do not need a lawyer to represent them. They think that their employer and the insurance company will play fair. These people do not have the experience of fighting many, many denials of deserving workers’ claims. That is what a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer does every day.
A workers’ compensation lawyer helps employees who are injured on the job get compensation for their injuries. This compensation could include lost wages and medical expenses. Lawyers have a familiarity with the workers’ compensation process that most workers do not. A lawyer can advise you about what happens in the process and what you can expect.
Workers’ compensation lawyers often step in when employees have their claims denied or are not receiving the medical care they need through their employer’s insurance company. If a workers’ claim is denied, the lawyer will prepare and file the Employee’s Claim Petition with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, Workers’ Compensation Division.
Lawyers oversee every step of the petition process, including:
- Exchanging documents and information with the employer and insurance company
- Gathering and reviewing medical records
- Taking depositions and defending the worker’s deposition
- Attending settlement conferences on behalf of the worker
- Negotiating with the insurance company
- Advising the worker about a settlement offer
- Representing the worker and questioning witnesses at the final hearing
Many of these tasks are best performed by a lawyer who has gone through the petition process before on behalf of other clients. From a practical standpoint, a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer understands how to work with other lawyers and insurance companies. This could include everything from taking a deposition to negotiating the terms of a settlement agreement. From a legal standpoint, a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer is trained to learn the underlying laws and research changes in the law. Most injured workers do not have this background.
Finally, a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer will spot the tactics insurance companies use to justify denying coverage or settle for very little money. In heated negotiations to settle workers’ compensation claims, workers who are represented tend to have better outcomes.
Need help getting workers’ compensation for your injury? Joe Osterbauer, Esq. and the Osterbauer Law Firm stand up for injured Minnesota workers’ rights. Joe’s 27 years of workers’ compensation experience and his team’s speedy service combine to get clients the results they need. To schedule a free consultation, visit Osterbauer Law Firm online or call Joe’s office at (612) 334-3434.
