Following a work injury in Norfolk, there are multiple things to deal with. You must seek prompt care from a qualified physician and get treatment for your injuries. You are also obligated to inform your employer of the injury, for which you have 30 days, according to Virginia laws. In addition, you must file a claim to recover benefits. The question here is why you would need a workers compensation attorney. We take a look at the advantages below.
You get to know your claim better
Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, as you need to complete due paperwork. While the system doesn’t require you to blame your employer, you may have the scope to pursue legal action if they retaliate against you for filing the claim. A competent attorney can explain the laws related to workers’ compensation in Virginia and will ensure you don’t overlook the critical things.
Help with filing the claim
Completing the workers’ compensation claim form and doing so in time are critical steps. When you hire an attorney, they will ensure there are no lapses that can hurt your case. If you have a pre-existing condition, things can be convoluted, and your attorney will help with all that.
Assistance with insurance negotiation
Insurance companies are known to deny and undervalue claims routinely for multiple reasons. If you don’t know how to negotiate for your benefits, hiring an attorney is always better. Experienced lawyers have probably handled hundreds of workers’ compensation claims and know what it takes to present facts, evidence, and arguments. They will also communicate with the claims adjuster on your behalf.
Representing you at the hearing
If the insurance company denies your claim, that doesn’t mean you cannot fight the decision. You have to file an appeal, for which there will be a hearing before the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (VWC). Your lawyer can present evidence, compelling arguments and get you the maximum benefits according to your claim. If your request is still denied, attorneys can navigate other steps.
In conclusion
Many injured workers fear the cost of hiring a workers’ compensation attorney. Fortunately, such cases are usually handled in contingency, which means you don’t pay an attorney until you recover benefits. Also, you don’t have to bear the consultation fee to know the case and interview the selected lawyer. Meeting an attorney allows you to avoid the common pitfalls that can hurt your workers’ compensation claim.
