Technically, workers’ compensation coverage is available to almost every employee. Those working in direct-hire arrangements, even if they are part-time, seasonal or brand-new on the job, typically have coverage provided by their employers.
Workers’ compensation helps replace lost wages and pay for medical treatment if an employee gets hurt on the job. Many employees take for granted that they can secure the coverage they need without professional assistance.
After all, the state makes the basic paperwork available online, and workers may think that applying on their own behalf is the fastest and most cost-effective solution. However, research into the outcome of workers’ compensation claims makes it clear that professional advocacy can make a major difference.
Workers with support often receive more
A review of workers’ compensation claims involving at least seven days of lost time on the job shows a very clear difference in outcomes. Those who handle the claims process entirely on their own received an average of $7,700. Those who had professional assistance during the application stage of the claims process received an average of $12,400.
There are many reasons for that substantial discrepancy. The first is that it is very easy for people to make mistakes with complex paperwork without professional assistance. The omission of certain details can be enough to limit the compensation provided to an injured employee.
Other times, the difference comes down to an understanding of the benefits available. Workers who do not fully understand the ins and outs of the program might accept less than they deserve because they don’t actually know what is available to them.
Finally, negotiation often plays an important role in the outcome of claims. Workers already coping with high levels of stress and pain related to their injuries may be at a disadvantage during negotiations with insurance professionals. Injured workers who worry about the financial impact of missing days on the job may benefit from partnering with a lawyer throughout the claims process.
The right support can have a profound impact on the outcome of a workers’ compensation claim. Not only does an attorney increase the chances of prompt approval, but they may also help their clients secure more compensation overall. Getting assistance from the earliest stages of the claims process can be beneficial for an injured employee worried about paying for their care and their bills when they cannot work.