We get many questions about workers compensation in Providence, RI, and we thought we would answer a few of them in today’s post. If you’ve suffered any kind of work-related injuries, it’s always best to contact a workers compensation lawyer in Providence so that they can evaluate your case in more detail.
What Should I Do after I’m Injured at Work?
You should report your accident to your employer as soon as possible but the first thing you should do is go to a doctor to get your injuries checked out.
If you do not report your accident within the required period, you might be denied workers compensation. Remember that time limits vary from state to state.
What if your injuries were not apparent at the time of the accident? Can you still get compensation?”
Yes, you can. It’s not unusual to realize your injuries a few days after the accident and you should report them as soon as you notice them.
We have a detailed explanation about making an accident report and tips on what you should do after being injured at work.
Does Workers Compensation Only Cover Accident Injuries?
No. Workers compensation will also cover you for illnesses or injuries that are not because of a work accident. However, your injury or your illness has to be work related.
For instance, you cannot file for workers compensation if your illness is because of smoking cigarettes. However, if you were exposed to elements at your workplace that consequently caused your illness, then you are entitled to workers compensation.
Every job has its own hazards and not everyone will be affected by those hazards. For instance, some people might develop severe allergic reactions when exposed to certain smells or chemicals at their place of work while others might not.
Read a detailed explanation of Massachusetts workers compensation laws.
If The Accident Was My Fault Will I Still Be Compensated?
Unlike a personal injury lawsuit, you don’t need to prove who was at fault in order to get compensation. The workers compensation system was designed in such a way that all workers receive compensation whether or not the accident was their fault.
There are of course exception to this rule. If you caused the accident because you were intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, there’s a high chance you will be denied compensation.
This is why most employers request their employees to take a drug test just to rule out the possibility that the accident happened while they were intoxicated.
Find out if you are eligible for workers compensation benefits.
I Prefer To See My Own Doctor. Is That Okay?
Well, this depends on the requirements of your employer’s workers compensation insurance policy. Find out from your employer if you can see your own doctor or if you must see a specified doctor.
If you must see a specified doctor, you are allowed to seek a second opinion after a certain amount of time has elapsed. The insurance company will still want you to get examined by their own doctor, however.
What Kind Of Benefits I’m I Entitled To?
This depends on the extent of your injuries. If you suffered minor injuries and your recovery was quick, you may not be entitled to receive temporary disability benefits. But if your injuries were severe and you couldn’t get back to work for a very long time, resulting in huge medical bills and lost wages, you are entitled to disability benefits and your medical bills will be taken care of. Unlike a personal injury case, you won’t receive additional compensation for pain and suffering.
Will I Be Allowed To Go Back To My Old Job?
Of course, if you are able to perform the same type of work. Your employer might have employed someone to replace you as you recovered from your injuries but that doesn’t mean they have to fire them in order to give you your job back.
But your employer must give you the next position that becomes available or if you can’t work the same type of job, they must place you in some other type of job available if you are competent to do it.
Do I Need To Hire A Workers Compensation Lawyer in Providence?
If your injuries were severe, you may need to hire a workers compensation lawyer in Providence to help you file and follow up on your claim. If you are considering settling your workers compensation claim, you should definitely talk to a workers compensation lawyer.
At Kevin P Landry Law Offices, we are dedicated to serving you during your most challenging time. We have helped our clients obtain verdicts and settlements worth millions. We will take care of your workers compensation claim while you focus on your recovery.
