When an employee is injured on the job, they may be entitled to benefits under their state’s workers’ compensation program. These benefits can include medical expenses, wage replacement, and vocational rehabilitation. In some cases, an injured worker may also be entitled to a lump sum payment for a permanent partial disability.
While a permanent partial disability award can provide much-needed financial assistance, it is essential to understand the implications of such a claim before moving forward. It is especially true if you are considering filing a claim without the assistance of a lawyer.
Keep reading to learn more about the dangers of filing a permanent partial disability workers’ comp claim without a lawyer.
What is a Permanent Partial Disability Workers’ Compensation Claim?
A permanent partial disability workers’ compensation claim is a claim filed by an injured worker who has suffered a permanent impairment due to their on-the-job injury. The claim is filed with the state workers’ compensation board, and if approved, the injured worker will receive a lump sum payment.
While a permanent partial disability award can provide much-needed financial assistance, it is essential to understand the implications of such a claim before moving forward. It is especially true if you are considering filing a claim without the assistance of a lawyer.
How to File Workers’ Compensation Claim for Permanent Partial Disability?
If you have suffered a permanent impairment due to your on-the-job injury, you may be eligible for a permanent partial disability award. To file a claim, you must complete the necessary paperwork and submit it to the state workers’ compensation board.
If your claim is approved, you will receive a lump sum payment. However, it is essential to understand the implications of such a claim before moving forward. You should also strongly consider speaking with a lawyer, as the claims process can be complex, and insurance companies may try to lowball you on the settlement amount.
Why Shouldn’t You File a Permanent Partial Disability Claim Without a Lawyer?
There are a few reasons why you shouldn’t file a permanent partial disability claim without a lawyer:
- The claims process can be complex, and you may not know the necessary paperwork and deadlines.
- If your claim is denied, you will likely need a lawyer to help you appeal the decision.
- Even if your claim is approved, the insurance company may try to lowball you on the settlement amount.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, appeal a denial, and negotiate a fair settlement. So, if you’ve been injured on the job, you should strongly consider speaking with a lawyer before filing a permanent partial disability claim.
What Could Happen if You File A Permanent Partial Disability Workers’ Comp Claim Without A Lawyer?
A few things could happen if you file a permanent partial disability workers’ comp claim without a lawyer. The most likely scenario is that you will have to represent yourself in front of the workers’ compensation board. It is not ideal, as the board is expected to be more sympathetic to your case if you have a lawyer.
Another possibility is that your claim could be denied. If this happens, you will likely need to hire a lawyer to help you appeal the decision. Finally, even if your claim is approved, the insurance company may try to lowball you on the settlement amount.
How to Find a Good Workers’ Comp Lawyer?
If you’ve been injured on the job, you should speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. You can find a good lawyer by asking for referrals, searching online, or contacting your local bar association.
When meeting with potential lawyers, ask about their experience handling workers’ compensation claims, success rate, and fees. You should also make sure that you feel comfortable communicating with the lawyer and that they seem to be a good advocate for you.
Conclusion
Filing a permanent partial disability Workers’ Compensation claim is a big decision that should not get made lightly. If you’ve gotten injured on the job, you should strongly consider speaking with a lawyer before proceeding with a claim. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, appeal a denial, and negotiate a fair settlement. At Gaylord and Nantais we have experienced workers’ comp attorneys who can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve Contact (562) 561-2669.
