Workers' Comp Process

Kansas City Workers' Compensation Lawyer

When you have been injured at work or diagnosed with a work-related illness and you are confused about how to start your claim, don't feel alone. A majority of injured workers, and even employers, don't understand the steps of filing workers' compensation claims.

Workers' compensation is basically insurance your employer must by law provide which covers your medical bills and a percentage of your lost wages when you are off the job because of a work-related injury or illness. With all you will be up against, in addition to recovering from your injury or illness, it is vital to have a Kansas City workers' compensation lawyer on your side. Our goal is to help you understand your rights and to secure the maximum benefits you are entitled to under the law.

Sounds simple, but in the process of acquiring your benefits, you may have to face not only your employer, but also:

• Your state Division of Workers' Compensation,
• The insurance company hired by your employer, AND their attorneys,
• The medical providers treating your injury or illness, and
• In some cases, a liable third-party at fault for your personal injuries.

Here are the Vital First Steps of the Claims Process:

• The first step is to report the injury or illness to your employer or a supervisor. Report it as soon as possible, and do it in writing. If you don't, your employer and the insurance company may try to claim you were not actually injured at work. Include: 1) The date, time and place you were injured, 2) the extent of your injuries, and 3) your full name and address. Always make a copy for yourself before you mail it. If you hand-deliver your notice, make a record of the date and time you delivered it, and the name and title of the person you gave it to.
• Second, it is important to call a workers' compensation lawyer for a free consultation. Even if your employer has accepted your claim, or has agreed to pay your expenses without going through the Missouri workers' compensation system, your employer or the insurance company may leave out important information either on purpose or by mistake. It is important to make sure.
• Third, choose a doctor from the list of qualified physicians your employer provides. See a doctor and make sure you follow through on your treatment program. In the case your employer states that they will not send you to a doctor of their own, you may be able to see your own doctor or one you choose.

The insurance company hired by your employer will always be represented by experienced workers' compensation attorneys with only one thing in mind: getting you to accept as little treatment, time off work and compensation as possible. Tip the scales in your favor. Contact a Kansas City workers' compensation attorney today.