Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Nashville, TN

FAQs

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

  Dial 615-862-8600 for non-emergencies in Nashville.

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

  Complete the Open Records Request Policy and Form and submit it by email to MNPDPublic@nashville.gov. You may also hand carry the form to the Police Central Records Division at 811 Anderson Lane, Suite 100 in Madison. For inquiries, call the records division at 615-862-7631.

• How do you pay for a workers' compensation attorney in Nashville?

  Workers' compensation attorneys in Nashville usually get paid after their clients receive the settlement or reward. Some of them also pay for case-related expenses and have the client reimburse these later when the case resolves. Attorneys' fees are set by state laws, and they are typically around 20% or less of the total amount the client recovers.

• If you do not have an attorney, who can you ask if you have questions on a workers' compensation case in Nashville?

  Get in touch with the Ombudsman Program of the Bureau of Workers' Compensation if you do not have a workers' compensation attorney in your Nashville case. The ombudsman can help you by working out the disputes in your workers' compensation claim and answering your concerns. They can be reached by phone at 1-800-332-2667 (TDD) or by email at wc.ombudsman@tn.gov.

• What are some of the issues that may arise from a compensation case of a worker from the entertainment industry in Nashville?

  Some of the issues that may arise in a compensation case of an entertainment industry worker in Nashville include the matter of determining whether the work rendered falls under contractual or full employment. Another issue is where the accident happened. Entertainers typically work in different venues, and accidents that happen during the commute are sometimes disputed. Deciding the average weekly wage is also another issue because many production crews, performers, and event staff do not have regular work hours.

• How can an injured worker be misclassified in a workers' compensation case in Nashville?

  An employer can misclassify a worker to be an independent contractor by intentional action, misunderstanding, or agreement with the worker. These employers can be penalized under the Employee Misclassification Education and Enforcement Fund Program. If an injured worker has been unlawfully misclassified by the employer to save costs, this case can be reported to the Compliance Program at 800-332-2667. Workers in Nashville can also contact a local investigator at 615-925-0889 and 615-626-2372.

• Can you get paid while checking in for a doctor's appointment in Nashville during work hours?

  Generally, there is no legal requirement for the employer in Nashville to pay you for the time spent with the doctor treating your work-related injury if you have not been ordered to take a medical rest from work. There are, however, some companies that pay for this type of time off. You may check with your human resources department or employee handbook if your company has this type of policy.

• 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.