Kansas City Back Injury Workers' Comp Lawyer
Understanding Back Injuries: Scope & Consequences
Your back is an intricate structure of bones, muscle, and tissue, including the tissue within the spinal column, which extends from the base of the skull to the pelvis. Protected within the bones of the spine are the spinal cord, nerves, and blood vessels. Back injuries, including neck injuries, are most severe when spinal cord tissue is bruised, torn, or crushed. A person could actually "break his back or neck" and yet not sustain a spinal cord injury, if only the bones or vertebrae around the spinal cord are fractured.
Minor to severe back injuries include:
- Sprains and strains
- Slipped or ruptured disks (soft tissue that acts as cushions between the vertebrae)
- Sciatica
- Fractured vertebrae
- Injuries to the cervical vertebrae (neck injuries)
- Spinal cord injuries
An occupational injury to the back could involve a fractured vertebra or spinal cord damage, resulting in prolonged or permanent inability to continue working or performing the same job functions. When your employer and their insurance carrier push you to ignore back pain and injury, it is time to seek the advice of a Kansas City workers' compensation attorney whose goal is to secure the maximum workers' compensation benefits to which you are entitled under law.
Do not let this happen to you. Contact a Kansas City workers' compensation attorney by calling (913) 815-1347 today for the full benefits you deserve.
Hire Our Kansas City Workplace Injury Lawyer
Neck and back injuries are particularly common when you have been rear-ended in an auto accident or lost your footing resulting in a slip and fall accident. These strains or sprains may take weeks or even months to heal while frequently resulting in permanent pain, decreased mobility, and limitations on work and daily activities.
The most common of construction accidents, falls from heights such as scaffolding, can result in severe back trauma and is the industry's leading cause of fatal injury. Even electrical accidents result in back injury when an electric current is strong enough to throw the victim away from the power source.
After a debilitating, life-altering back injury, the last thing you want to handle is delay and trouble with workers' compensation benefits. Unfortunately, these delays are built into the system. The associated frustration, along with the disinterest and outright greed of most large insurance companies, may force you to accept a low settlement offer for your claim.
Commonly Asked Questions About Workplace Accidents in Kansas City
How can I maximize my workers' compensation benefits after a back injury in Kansas City?
To maximize your workers' compensation benefits following a back injury, it is essential to keep detailed documentation of your medical treatments, expenses, and any lost wages due to your injury. Always report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, and seek medical attention to establish a clear record of your condition. Hiring a Kansas City workers' compensation attorney can further enhance your chances of receiving the full benefits you are entitled to, as they can provide legal guidance and help negotiate with the insurance companies, advocating for a fair settlement.
Consider setting up a dedicated folder or digital file to keep all related documents organized. This practice not only aids your legal team but also provides a clear timeline of events and treatments to reference if discrepancies or disputes arise during the claims process. Additionally, maintaining regular communication with your legal representative ensures that you remain informed and prepared for each step in the process.
What are the common signs that I should pursue workers' compensation for a back injury?
Common signs that you should pursue workers' compensation for a back injury include persistent pain that interferes with daily activities, reduced mobility, or limitations in performing job tasks. If you've sustained any injuries at work — whether minor or severe — and they affect your capacity to fulfill your role, pursuing compensation may be warranted. Consulting with our Kansas City workers' compensation attorney can clarify your options and help you pursue the necessary support you need.
It's critical to be proactive in recognizing the impact of your injuries, as waiting too long can complicate your claim. Often, early intervention and legal advice can prevent common pitfalls such as missing filing deadlines or incorrectly reporting injuries, which could jeopardize the success of your claim. Therefore, prompt action can safeguard your health and your rights.
What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Workplace Accident?
In the immediate aftermath of a workplace accident, it’s essential to follow specific steps to protect your health and your legal rights. First, seek medical attention even if the injury appears minor, as some symptoms can surface later. Prompt medical evaluation not only prioritizes your health but also provides an official health report, which is crucial for your claim. Secondly, report the incident to your employer or supervisor as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in delays or denials of your claim.
Next Steps Include:
- Documenting the incident: Take photographs, if possible, and make notes of the circumstances surrounding your accident, including time, date, and location.
- Gathering witness contact information: If anyone witnessed your accident, collect their contact details for future reference.
- Contacting a workers' compensation attorney: Legal advice can be invaluable in guiding you through the claim process and ensuring that all necessary steps are followed correctly.
How Do Kansas City Laws Affect My Workers' Compensation Claim?
Understanding local laws is crucial for navigating your workers' compensation claim effectively. In Kansas City, workers' compensation is designed to cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages due to work-related injuries. These laws mandate that employers carry insurance to cover such claims, but the intricacies can be challenging without professional help. Certain deadlines must be met, such as notifying your employer within 30 days of the accident and filing a claim within two years.
It’s essential to be aware of factors that can influence your compensation, such as the nature of your employment, any concurrent medical conditions, and the exact circumstances of the incident. Familiarity with these regulations ensures your claim is processed smoothly and within legal timelines. Engaging a knowledgeable attorney from Haight Stang, LLC ensures you’re fully informed about these nuances, empowering you to pursue the compensation you’re rightfully owed.
Can I Select My Own Doctor for Treatment in a Workers' Compensation Claim?
Under Kansas City workers' compensation laws, your employer or their insurance company typically has the right to select which physicians you can see for an initial assessment and treatment. However, if you seek a second opinion or additional treatment, you might have options, although these may need to be approved by the insurance provider. If the insurance company denies your chosen doctor, you may cover these costs out-of-pocket until any disputes are resolved.
This system aims to control costs while ensuring injured workers receive appropriate care. However, doctors chosen by employers might prioritize returning you to work quickly over complete recovery. It’s crucial to understand your rights in selecting medical providers and obtaining the care necessary for a full recovery. Consulting with a legal professional at Haight Stang, LLC can help clarify these options and guide you in making informed decisions about your treatment plan.
What If My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?
If your workers' compensation claim is denied, it’s important not to panic as many denials can be appealed successfully. Initial denials might occur due to missed deadlines, insufficient medical documentation, or questions about the employment-related nature of your injury. The first step is to review the denial letter, which will typically state the reasons for denial. Understanding these reasons is critical for formulating a strong appeal strategy.
Filing an appeal involves gathering additional evidence that supports your claim, such as further medical evaluations, witness testimonies, or accident reconstructions. Having an experienced attorney from Haight Stang, LLC is beneficial in navigating the appeals process, as they bring knowledge and strategy to counter the initial denial. With the right legal support, you have a much-improved chance of having your claim accepted and receiving the benefits you’re entitled to under Kansas City’s workers' compensation laws.
Contact our Kansas City back injury workers' compensation attorney by calling (913) 815-1347 today!
