Should I Hire a Work Comp Attorney?

YES. Employers and Insurers encourage injured workers not to hire an attorney. They have their own best interests in mind. Their goal is to close claims as quickly as possible for as little as possible. As such, they may not accurately represent your entitlement to benefits. The Workers’ Compensation Act is complex with numerous required procedures, time limits and specifications that may result in the loss of benefits, if not followed properly by the injured worker. You are at a disadvantage without an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the appropriate benefits. Contact attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk to discuss your rights and benefits in complete confidentiality.

Why Workers’ Compensation Benefits Versus Group Disability Benefits?

Taxes – Unlike group benefits, workers’ compensation benefits are not subject to taxes.

More Money – Workers’ Compensation benefits may pay at a higher rate.

Medical Coverage – Workers’ Compensation pays all of your medical bills with no co-pays.

Denied – Group disability policies may deny your claim if injury was due to a work related incident.

What are my Rights Regarding Social Security Disability Benefits?

If your disability stops you from working for at least six (6) months and your recovery will last at least one (1) year from the date you become disabled, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. An application must be completed to obtain a determination regarding these benefits. Also, they must be coordinate with workers’ compensation benefits. Contact attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk to discuss.

What do I do if the Insurer Says that…

Call attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk. The insurer is required to consider the exploration of retraining equally as job search if it will return an injured worker to suitable gainful employment.

When do I Need to Job Search?

You need to job search to be entitled to ongoing temporary total disability benefits if you are released to work with restrictions. You should not sign a Job Placement Plan and Agreement or initiate job search without consulting with attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk. The insurer may use an inadequate job search as the basis to discontinue your benefits.

What is Chronic Pain Syndrome?

Many injuries cause long-term problems, including permanent limitations on activity and recurring episodes of pain or discomfort referenced as chronic pain syndrome. Chronic pain may even make it difficult to keep a job, cause financial distress, interfere with personal activities, or cause other stress-related illnesses like depression or anxiety. Don’t lose hope; contact attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk, to discuss the effects of chronic pain and what can be done for it.

What is a Qualified Rehabilitation Consultant (QRC)?

A qualified rehabilitation consultant (QRC) provides rehabilitation services, if you need help returning to work due to your injury. You have the right to choose your own QRC. If you do not, the insurer will refer you to one. There are specific time limits to request a different QRC, if this happens. It is important for you to contact attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk to discuss the selection of your QRC and the services they provide.

Should I be Reimbursed for Travel to Medical Treatment?

Yes. Reasonable expenses include bus fares, auto mileage and parking expenses. Keep accurate records and submit the records to your insurer for reimbursement.

What is an Independent Medical Examination?

An independent medical examination is an examination requested by the insurer to be performed by an adverse medical provider. The IME doctor provides his opinion regarding the causation, extent of injury, restrictions, date of MMI (maximum medical improvement), and the extent of your permanent disability. This usually results in extreme ramifications for your benefits. You should contact attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk, to seek immediate advice upon receipt of notice of an examination.

Do I Have to be Treated by a Company…

In most cases, an injured worker is free to choose their own doctor. However, a physician is considered a primary care provider if seen (3) times. You are entitled to a second opinion and/or change of physician. Contact attorneys Denise Lemmon or Conrad Tanasychuk. We protect your right to treat with the doctor of your choice.