Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Kansas City

FAQs

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

  Individuals can dial (816) 234-5111 to reach the Kansas City Police Department for non-emergency situations.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report in Kansas City, you can either physically go to the Kansas City Police Department located at 1125 Locust, Kansas City, MO 64106; send a mail request with checks payable to the Board of Police Commissioners; or use the Lexis Nexis Request A Report feature on its website: https://www.kcpd.org/about/services/report-and-video-requests.

• What are the most common causes of workplace accidents in Kansas City?

  OSHA states that the most common causes of workplace accidents in Kansas City are being electrocuted, experiencing a fall, and being caught between or hit by objects. Some of the most prevalent types of workplace accident claims involve accidents at construction sites, slips and falls, explosions, fires, exposure to hazardous substances, welding accidents, and incidents involving heavy machineries like forklifts and cranes.

• What types of injuries are frequently included in workers' compensation claims in Kansas City?

  Workers' compensation claims in Kansas City are frequently made for a variety of injuries, including those sustained during work breaks, illnesses brought on by exposure to hazardous materials at work, and injuries brought on by an excessive workload or stress. Other injuries include burns brought on by company equipment, machinery, or facilities; injuries sustained while participating in work-related events or activities; pre-existing medical conditions made worse by the workplace environment; and fatal injuries sustained while performing duties.

• What should you do if your Kansas City employer fires you after you suffer a workplace injury?

  Since it is illegal in Kansas City for an employer to terminate an employee solely because they have sustained an injury related to their work, the injured employee has the right to file a wrongful termination claim. Additionally, if an employee experiences discrimination from an employer after suffering a work-related injury or illness, they should file a discrimination claim. Employees should consult a skilled workers' compensation attorney to help file these claims.

• What should you do if your company doctor in Kansas City denies workers' compensation eligibility or suggests a lower compensation amount?

  If the company doctor denies workers' compensation eligibility or suggests lower compensation due to prior medical history, employees have the right to consult their personal doctor. However, in Kansas City, seeking treatment from a personal physician may not be covered by workers' compensation. It is advisable to hire a qualified workers' compensation attorney who can help determine the best course of action in such situations.

• What variables determine the value of my Kansas City workers' compensation claim?

  The amount of workers' compensation benefits you are eligible to receive in Kansas City is determined by a number of variables, including the severity of the injury, the duration of the disability, the afflicted body part, pre-injury wages, if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the accident, and whether safety regulations were broken. In the event that someone other than your employer is at fault for your injuries, you may file a personal injury lawsuit and be awarded a greater settlement that includes compensation for pain and suffering.

• 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.