Many injured workers struggle to get the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve after a work-related injury or an occupational illness. Insurance companies often deny, undervalue, or delay payments, and the workers’ compensation system can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to seek a workers’ comp settlement by yourself.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer from the law firm of Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer can help you file a strong claim and deal directly with the insurance company for you. We know Kentucky workers’ comp law and are ready to protect your rights.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you seek maximum workers’ comp benefits.
How the Lexington Workers’ Comp Settlement Process Works
The workers’ compensation claims process starts when you first report your injury to your employer. After that, your employer must notify its insurance company, which reviews the claim and decides whether to accept or deny it. If the insurer accepts your claim, you could receive benefits like medical coverage and lost wage replacement payments right away. In some situations, insurance companies and injured workers agree to settlements.
A settlement involves you and the insurance company agreeing on a lump-sum payment or a structured payout. Before you settle, you must submit the agreement to an Administrative Law Judge for approval. If you and the insurer can’t agree, your case moves forward to a hearing. At that point, a judge hears the evidence and makes a decision.
Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys can help you through every step of the settlement process, from filing paperwork to representing you at hearings or negotiations.
What Are Your Chances of Winning a Workers’ Comp Case?
No two workers’ compensation cases in Kentucky are the same. The outcome depends on the specifics of your injury, your employer’s cooperation, and numerous other factors. Pushback from the insurance company could also affect your claim. Many people who win workers’ comp settlements do so with help from a lawyer. Our attorneys can guide you through the claims process, prepare your claim so it includes all necessary details, enter negotiations from a position of strength, and stand up to the insurance company as needed.
Tips for Winning a Workers’ Comp Case
Winning a workers’ compensation case in Kentucky often comes down to preparation and persistence. You need to understand how the process works and take steps to protect your health, your job, and your future. Many workers don’t realize how one missed step – like waiting too long to report the workplace accident or not following doctor’s orders – can hurt their case. Insurance companies look for reasons to deny or reduce workers’ compensation claims, and if you aren’t careful, they might find one.
The good news is that you can improve your chances of getting benefits by following these tips:
Get experienced legal help from Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer.
Workers’ compensation laws in Kentucky can be confusing, and the claims process involves a lot of paperwork and strict deadlines. Our workers’ compensation attorneys know how the system works and can help you avoid common mistakes, make sure your claim includes everything you qualify for, and represent you in hearings if needed.
Know your rights.
Kentucky law gives workers certain protections after a workplace injury or occupational illness. If you work for a company with even one employee, your employer must carry workers’ comp insurance. If you are a covered employee, you have the right to receive medical treatment, compensation for lost wages, and other benefits if your injury qualifies. Knowing your rights means you can take the proper steps from the start and avoid problems later.
Report your injury promptly.
You need to tell your employer about your injury as soon as possible. The law does not set a strict deadline for reporting, but waiting too long could cause delays or raise questions about your claim. Courts in Kentucky have accepted reports made up to 30 days later, but you should not wait that long. Reporting quickly shows that you took the injury seriously and helps your employer take the proper steps with their insurance carrier.
Seek medical attention immediately and follow your doctor’s orders.
After getting hurt, you should see a doctor right away, even if the injury initially seems minor. Delaying treatment can make your condition worse and could hurt your workers’ compensation claim. You also need to follow your doctor’s orders, which might include surgery, medications, rest, therapy, or follow-up visits. If your doctor says you can’t work or puts you on restrictions, ask for a written off-work slip and give it to your employer. Ignoring medical advice could provide the insurance company a reason to question your need for benefits.
Gather as much evidence as you can.
Keep records of everything related to your injury. Save medical bills, medical records, work slips, prescriptions, and any communication from your employer or their insurer. If anyone witnessed the accident, ask them for their contact info. That kind of documentation can back up your story and give your claim more support.
File a claim as soon as possible.
In Kentucky, you must file your workers’ comp claim within two years of the injury. Waiting too long could put your case at risk. Once you report the injury and see a doctor, you should also file your Application for Resolution of a Claim with the Department of Workers’ Claims. That can protect your right to fair compensation if a dispute arises later.
Stand up to insurance companies.
Insurance companies don’t always act in your best interest. They might delay your treatment, deny that you were injured, say the accident didn’t happen at work, or argue that you can go back to work sooner than your doctor says. If something like that happens, remember you have the right to push back. Ask questions. Request written explanations. Don’t accept low offers without reviewing them carefully. If something seems off, don’t be afraid to say so or get help.
Contact an Experienced Lexington Attorney Who Can Help You Seek a Fair Settlement
If you got hurt at work and need help with your workers’ compensation claim, contact Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer today. Our team is available 24/7 to discuss your case. The initial consultation is free, and you won’t pay anything unless and until our workers’ compensation attorneys recover benefits for you.
