Getting injured on the job is an unfortunate reality for many construction workers because building sites involve heavy lifting, the use of hazardous equipment, and risks of falls from heights. Yet what happens after an accident doesn't have to be just as tricky with the right professional help. Keep reading as we explain Wisconsin's workers' compensation claim process and why hiring a dedicated lawyer is advisable for construction workers seeking the benefits they deserve.
The Workers' Compensation Claim Process
Workers' compensation is a no-fault system that provides medical and lost wage benefits to employees who are injured or become ill in the course of employment. In Wisconsin, most employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance in case an on-the-job injury happens. If a construction worker sustains an injury that requires medical attention or causes missed work time, they can file a personal injury claim with their employer's insurance carrier to receive compensation benefits.
After filing a workers' compensation claim, the insurance carrier investigates the circumstances of the injury to determine compensability. They may send the injured worker for an independent medical exam. Benefits like lost wage replacement and medical treatment costs will be provided if the claim is accepted. However, carriers don't always make it easy to receive all benefits owed - many deny claims or terminate benefits prematurely. This is where hiring experienced legal counsel comes in.
Common Workers' Compensation Construction Injuries
Injuries that are prevalent in construction work include back strains and sprains, repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, falls, and lacerations. Hazards on the job may also lead to respiratory illnesses from inhaling dust and fumes. Overuse and ergonomic issues are big contributors to musculoskeletal disorders in manual laborers over time. Getting proper treatment and reasonable work restrictions is vital for recovery.
Why Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer?
Navigating the workers' compensation system alone can be an overwhelming process. Plus, insurance companies may challenge claims by questioning the circumstances of accidents or alleging other causes. They can also scrutinize medical records, looking for pre-existing conditions to blame injuries on. Benefits such as lost wage payments and medical treatment authorizations can be terminated prematurely, leaving injured workers without adequate care or income support. An experienced Wisconsin workers' compensation lawyer can make all the difference in:
- Ensuring all entitled medical treatment and disability payments are provided promptly
- Appealing claim or compensation denials
- Resolving disputes over work restrictions or return-to-work issues
- Guiding injured workers through a complicated legal process and protecting their rights in the event of a disputed permanent disability claim
A lawyer can also help construction workers receive compensation for long-term conditions that develop long after an accident, also known as occupational disease claims. Examples include repetitive stress injuries, breathing in asbestosis fibers, and lung diseases from toxic exposures.
Choose aN EXPERIENCED Wisconsin Workers' Compensation Lawyer
Not all personal injury attorneys are qualified to handle complex workers' compensation cases. Finding a lawyer with specific experience representing injured construction workers is important. Personal injury lawyers at Bykhovsky Law LLC have years of experience advocating for the rights of injured workers in Wisconsin. We have a proven track record of maximizing benefits and obtaining the best possible outcomes for all our clients. If you've been injured on the job, Contact Us today and book a free consultation to discuss your workers' compensation claim.
