Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Charleston

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Charleston, West Virginia?

  In Charleston, West Virginia, the non-emergency number contact of the local police station is 304-348-8111.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Charleston, West Virginia?

  You can call the Records Office of the police department in Charleston at 304-348-6400 to request a copy of a police incident report related to your case.

• Who is entitled to receive workers' compensation benefits in Charleston?

  In Charleston, workers who suffer injuries or work-related illnesses while performing duties at work are entitled to receive compensation according to the Workers' Compensation Code in West Virginia. This compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, and permanent disability benefits for permanent injuries. If your employer does not cooperate during your claim, it's wise to speak with a skilled workers' compensation attorney to preserve your rights.

• What other types of compensation can you receive besides workers' compensation benefits in Charleston?

  If you get injured at work in Charleston, you may be entitled to compensation beyond your employer's workers' compensation insurance. You can file a product liability lawsuit against a manufacturer of a defective product or a toxic tort lawsuit against a manufacturer of a toxic substance. If the employer doesn't have workers' compensation insurance, you can sue in civil court or claim from a state fund. Ultimately, the worker may sue a third party who caused the injury.

• Do you have to file a lawsuit against your company if you sustain a work-related injury in Charleston?

  If you get injured on the job in Charleston, filing a lawsuit against your company is unnecessary. Instead, you can file a claim to receive workers' compensation benefits. However, suppose the injury resulted from exposure to a hazardous condition that the company is already privy to or should have known existed. In that case, you can file a lawsuit against them. When this happens, it is better to seek advice from experienced workers' compensation attorneys to proceed.

• How do you dispute a denied workers' compensation benefits claim in Charleston?

  If your workers' compensation claim is rejected in Charleston, you have the right to dispute and appeal the decision within 30 days of the denial. Acting quickly and contacting a seasoned workers' compensation attorney will help determine your next steps and ensure that you receive the maximum amount of benefits possible.

• What are the leading types of work-related accidents in Charleston?

  The leading types of work-related accidents in Charleston are falling from heights, slipping on unstable surfaces, being struck by objects, electric shocks, explosions, overexertion, and motor vehicle accidents. Accidents, even at work, are inevitable and may often lead to severe injuries. If you got injured at work, speak to a skilled workers' compensation attorney to learn about your rights.

• 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.