If you were injured at work in Iowa, your immediate step is to seek medical help, especially when the injuries are severe. Secondly, you are required to inform your employer of the injury, and the sooner you do it, the better. While state laws allow reporting within 90 days of the accident, it is always smart to act early. The process of filing a workers’ compensation claim can be complex, and if you don’t have the experience, consider hiring legal help. In this post, we are discussing situations when hiring an iowa workers compensation attorney is critical.
- You sustained a serious work injury: If your injury is such that you need surgery or have to be away from work for a very long time, get an attorney. Keep in mind that insurance companies do everything to fight such big claims, and therefore, it is critical that you have legal support to fight ahead.
- Your employer has fired you: While you cannot blame your employer for a work injury, they cannot retaliate or terminate your job because you have filed a workers’ compensation claim. In such situations, you have legal rights, and it makes sense that you have an attorney to take up the battle.
- You will have permanent work restrictions: Employers, although not always, are known to act against employees or refuse to cooperate in case of permanent work restrictions. If you are likely to lose your job because you cannot work anymore because of your injuries, feel free to meet a lawyer.
- You have a third-party claim: In many situations, another person could be responsible for your injuries, and it is imperative that you file a personal injury claim to recover a settlement. The legal complexities of such cases take a lot of work to navigate, especially if you also have a workers’ compensation claim. Find a lawyer who has experience with such cases.
- Your claim is denied: Just because your workers’ compensation claim was denied, you don’t have to lose hope. You have the right to appeal, and during the hearing, you get to present evidence and bring witnesses. Filing an appeal and going through the entire process without an attorney could be a real struggle.
Final word
When filing a workers’ compensation claim, there are forms, paperwork, and other details that matter, and it is in your interest that you choose a competent lawyer. Find a law firm in Iowa that works extensively for employees.
