Virginia employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance for all employees. The workers’ compensation system doesn’t require the claimant to prove fault, which means you can get the benefits regardless of who or what caused the accident. Also, you cannot sue your employer for their negligence. If you were injured at work and wondering whether you should consult a workers’ comp lawyer Newport News, we have enlisted the things that an attorney can do for you.
- Gather Evidence: Your workers’ comp benefits are paid by the insurance company, and for them, every claim is a loss. As such, you cannot expect the claims adjuster to be fair or honest. An attorney can gather evidence and work on the case to ensure that your benefits are not denied. For this, they will ensure that your medical documentation is up to the mark, and if needed, they might even need to conduct depositions of medical experts.
- Negotiate A Settlement: If you wish to maximize the compensation, you should get an attorney to work on your case. They will consider all relevant factors, including the extent of your injuries and what you may have to pay for your medical care, not just in the present but also in the future. If your doctor says that you have suffered a permanent disability, your compensation should be way higher, and an attorney can make sure that you don’t accept anything less from the insurance company. Because tactics used by the insurance adjusters are confusing, hiring a lawyer only makes things simpler.
- Take The Case to Trial: If the insurance company has denied your claim or there is no way that you can come to an acceptable settlement, you may have to request a hearing at the Commission. Taking the matter ahead is not easy, and it is only smart to ensure that an attorney is representing you on the matter. Lawyers are skilled at investigation, and more importantly, they can gather the information that’s not available easily. They will also ensure that statements from eyewitnesses and other parties are presented as needed.
Final word
Just because you are injured at work, it doesn’t always mean that you can get a fair settlement from the insurance company. Insurance carriers even deny claims stating that the injury is non-compensable. Call an attorney so that you understand what to expect from the process and if you can do something more to protect your interests.
