Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Topeka, KS

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Topeka, Kansas?

  Individuals can reach the Topeka Police Department at (785) 368-9551 for non-emergency matters.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Topeka, Kansas?

  To get a copy of a police report, you need to visit the Records division of the Topeka Police Department at 320 S Kansas Ave, STE 100, Topeka, KS 66603. The public service window is located in the Law Enforcement Center's lobby and operates from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, except on city-recognized holidays.

• Who may submit a workers' compensation claim in Topeka?

  Almost all employees in Topeka, regardless of their employment status, are required to have workers' compensation insurance. It covers work-related injuries without the need to prove fault, and both small and large companies must carry it. It can cover minor injuries or major incidents resulting in disability, and the amount of compensation received depends on the extent of the injury. If you suffer an injury at work that results in medical bills and lost wages, it's worth considering filing a claim.

• What should you do if your employer in Topeka does not have workers' compensation?

  Regrettably, there are companies in Topeka that either lack workers' compensation insurance or mislead their employees about their coverage. In such cases, it is important to promptly seek help from a qualified workers' compensation lawyer if your employer discourages you from filing a claim. Employers are prohibited by law from retaliating against employees who seek workers' compensation or report to the state their company's failure to provide adequate coverage. Having a lawyer by your side can dissuade your employer from attempting to intimidate or penalize you.

• Can you still get compensation if you were injured at work in Topeka and the business shuts down all of a sudden?

  It makes no difference if your employer in Topeka closed its doors after your injury happened. Their former insurance provider is still responsible for covering your claim. If the employer did not have insurance, there are alternate means of payment available. Additionally, even if the insurance company goes bankrupt, you are still covered. Consult a skilled workers' compensation attorney to go over all your options.

• Should you hire an attorney to handle your Topeka workers' compensation claim?

  Since the process of filing a workers' compensation claim in Topeka can be very challenging, it is advisable to hire an attorney specializing in workers' compensation who can do the following for you: file claims, communicate with employers and insurance providers, negotiate settlements, attend hearings, appeal denied benefits, handle all required paperwork, and represent you in court.

• How much does a workers' compensation attorney in Topeka cost?

  According to law, Topeka attorneys can take up to 25% of any monetary award that is not given voluntarily by your employer or their insurance provider. However, if your employer makes a written settlement offer before the attorney is hired, different rules apply. The attorney can charge up to 50% of the increase obtained, with a cap of 25% of the entire settlement. All attorney fees require the prior approval of the Administrative Law Judge assigned to your case.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.