The Ins And Outs Of Workers' Compensation
If you've been injured in the workplace, you may be entitled to benefits for your injuries. In addition to state laws, there are also federal laws, protections, and insurance to assure an injured worker is properly compensated for any work-related accident. In most cases, an injured worker will seek benefits through workers' compensation.
Typically, any form of injury while in the workplace is included in workers' compensation insurance, regardless of who is at fault for the injury. There are however exceptions. If for example, it can be proven that an employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and the accident was a result of the worker's intoxication, the workers' compensation may be denied. If the employee was involved with illegal activity or violated company policies, an employee may also be denied.
Similar to whistleblower protections, workers also have job protection, in most cases, from being fired for filing a workers' compensation claim. The fear of losing your job should not be a factor in whether or not you filing a claim or handle the injury yourself. In fact, if you believe that the injury was a result of your employer's negligence, intentional action, or reckless behavior, you have the right to sue.
Keep in mind, however, that if you do sue, you do waive your right to worker's compensation insurance. This may still be a wise decision although, as you may be entitled to additional awards such as pain and suffering and punitive damages, which may not be covered by workers' compensation.
It is important to recognize that every workplace injury is unique, and the correct step for one accident victim may not be the best step for a different victim. You may wish to speak with an employment lawyer at Terry Katz & Associates by calling (516) 997-0997 to see the best way to proceed in collecting the workers' compensation benefits you may be entitled to.
Source: findlaw.com, "Workers' Comp Benefits Explained," Accessed on Oct. 11, 2016
Hiring Terry Katz and associates to represent my interests in my Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability case proved to be a smart decision that yielded an extremely successful outcome.
Through the lengthy and intricate process I came to realize just how valuable having a team of highly skilled representation was, and that is just how to describe the law firm of Terry Katz and Associates “Highly skilled legal representation”. I’d like to thank the entire team who worked on both my cases all of whom were always professional, knowledgeable and extremely caring. Throughout my entire case all of my calls and emails were always returned in a timely manner. My questions always answered competently and professionally. I always understood the process and felt a confidence in the process that I would not have had if not for hiring Terry Katz and Associates.
Mostly I’d like to thank Ms. Langdale who worked tirelessly on both my workers compensation case and my social security disability case. Her representation and legal prowess in the court room was nothing short of impressive to witness. I will never forget how confidently represented and protected I felt during her opening remarks at my social security disability hearing.
During these difficult times I was truly grateful to have Ms. Langdale working so diligently and expertly for my interests.
