When you are injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help you recover from your injuries and provide for your family while you are unable to work. Unfortunately, the workers’ compensation system is complex, and many injured workers have their claims denied or undervalued.
At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, our Gonzales personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping injured workers in Gonzales and throughout the state of Louisiana. Our Gonzales workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the claims process and fight for the full, fair benefits you are owed.
Call (225) 999-1111 or contact us online for a free consultation with our team today.
What is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to workers who are injured on the job. In Louisiana, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means that if you are injured while working, you can file a claim for benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. The Louisiana Workforce Commission provides additional resources to learn more about your rights and benefits.
Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to help you recover from your injuries and provide for your family while you are unable to work. However, the claims process can be complex, and many injured workers have their claims denied or undervalued. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Gonzales on your side.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
Workers’ compensation benefits can cover a wide range of expenses related to your work-related injury or illness. These benefits are designed to help you recover from your injuries and provide for your family while you are unable to work.
Workers’ compensation benefits can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Rehabilitation costs
- Death benefits
It’s important to note that workers’ compensation benefits do not cover pain and suffering. However, if your injury was caused by a third party, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your pain and suffering. If your injury was caused by a defective machine or hazardous workplace equipment, you may also have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
What to Do After a Workplace Accident
If you are injured on the job, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your health and your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Here’s what you need to do after a workplace accident:
- Seek Medical Attention: After a workplace accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and soft tissue injuries, may not have obvious symptoms right away. A doctor can evaluate your condition and make sure you get the treatment you need.
- Report the Accident: After a workplace accident, you should report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. In Louisiana, you have 30 days to report the accident, but it’s best to report it right away. If you wait too long to report the accident, your employer may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident. If your injury occurred due to unsafe property conditions at your workplace, you may also have a premises liability claim against the property owner.
- Document the Accident: After a workplace accident, you should document the accident and your injuries. Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Keep copies of all medical records and other documents related to the accident.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: After a workplace accident, you should file a workers’ compensation claim as soon as possible. In Louisiana, you have one year from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, it’s best to file the claim right away. The longer you wait to file a claim, the more likely it is that evidence will be lost or destroyed.
- Call a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: After a workplace accident, you should call a Gonzales workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you file a claim, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company. If your claim is denied, an attorney can represent you in an appeal.
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Gonzales?
In Louisiana, you have one year from the date of the accident to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you fail to file a claim within this time frame, you will likely lose your right to benefits. That’s why it’s important to file a claim as soon as possible after a workplace accident.
It’s also important to note that if you are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you may be required to undergo an independent medical examination (IME) every six months. If you fail to attend an IME, your benefits may be suspended.
How Our Gonzales Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help
Whether you need legal assistance filing a claim or your initial claim was rejected, Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys is ready to help you obtain the benefits you deserve. We are ready to protect your rights and best interests inside and outside the courtroom, so you can make the best possible recovery from injury.
Our workers’ compensation services include:
- Helping you file a workers’ compensation claim
- Gathering evidence to support your claim
- Calculating the full value of your claim
- Negotiating with the insurance company
- Representing you in an appeal, if necessary
Contact us today at (225) 999-1111 today to let us help you recover your workers’ comp benefits in Gonzales, LA.