Understanding Workers’ Compensation Claims

An injury can be traumatic and life-changing, not to mention expensive and painful. If you have been injured while on the job, what type of recourse do you have? We might file a third-party lawsuit against a negligent business or individual, but you can also look to Workers’ Compensation for support.

“In a Missouri workers’ comp claim, injuries are valued based on the body part and extent of impairment. We have to prove the impact of the missing finger on your daily life and your ability to work.”

Schedule a free case evaluation here.

Gary Burger

Personal Injury Attorney

Workers’ Compensation is in place to help those who have been injured on the job. Workers’ Compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required to carry. It provides financial compensation and medical care for employees who are hurt while they are at work. 

The four major compensation programs under Missouri workers’ compensation laws include: 

• Medical treatment
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Salary replacement benefits
• Other benefits as appropriate 

Sometimes, you might receive ongoing monthly benefits, but an insurance company might also offer a lump-sum settlement for your permanent injury. Never accept a settlement without first speaking to our lawyers. 

If you have been injured while at work and believe that you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, it is advisable to speak with an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer. The process of filing a claim is not always straightforward, and even after you file a claim, employers will often push back in order to avoid providing compensation. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the process so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries. 

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Most people are unfamiliar with the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim, but when you are injured at work, whether it’s that you fell, your finger was amputated, or else, it is important to understand your rights. There is a specific process required to correctly file a Workers’ Compensation claim in the state of Missouri. 

• Notify your employer that you have been injured – Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. In Missouri, you are required to provide written notice of the accident within 30 days of when it occurred. If you think you have missed this deadline, there might be exceptions made, and it is advisable to speak with a lawyer to learn more about your options.

• Submit your claim – After giving your employer notice of your injury, you will need to submit a claim to Workers Compensation. In Missouri, you have two years from the date of the accident to submit your claim. 

• Maintain medical care – Be sure to follow the directions and advice of your medical team; if you miss an appointment with a physical therapist or a doctor, this could impact your payments.
• Get a second opinion – While it is important to follow up with medical care, it is also advisable to get a second opinion from another doctor. Often, the initial doctor who will see you is the one that your employer selected. A second opinion can help outline your full care plan.

Contact a Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

The process of navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be confusing, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the steps required to file a claim correctly. At Burger Law, we are dedicated to helping clients who have been injured on the job. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation to learn more about your options.