Workers injured on the job are entitled to many benefits. Some of those benefits, such as paid medical bills, seem obvious, but other benefits are unclear. That can lead to out-of-pocket expenses that are not easily afforded by injured workers or their families. Travel expenses, for example, can be claimed over the regular distance a person would travel to get to the job site. If an appointment with a specialist requires extended or overnight travel, mileage, meals, and accommodation costs should be covered by the insurance company for the employer. Other benefits may include a settlement for permanent injuries, assistance locating another job if the injured party cannot continue with their current position, future medical attention for surgeries related to the sustained injury, and vocational training if necessary.
Many workers do not realize the extent of the responsibility of the employer in the event of a work-related injury. That is one of the reasons why an attorney should be consulted by the injured party involved in Workers Compensation in Burlington VT. The insurance company is under no obligation to inform injured workers of their rights or the benefits to which they are entitled. In fact, it is not in their best interest to do so. The primary goal of the insurance company is to pay out as little as possible on each and every claim to maximize their profits and keep costs down for the employer. The insurance company is not looking out for the worker.
Attorneys experienced in cases of Workers Compensation in Burlington VT, such as those at McVeigh Skiff LLP, can provide legal representation for injured workers. They offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis. That means that no fees are charged unless a settlement or judgment in the case is awarded. Injured workers are in pain, under a lot of stress, and have no idea how to negotiate a settlement or handle a claim. That is another reason to contact an attorney. They will deal with the insurance company, review all the medical information, and build a strong case to support the request for medical bill payment, added or extra expenses, or a settlement.
Many cases are settled out of court, so inexperienced attorneys may not have the skills needed to win a case if it goes to court. Experienced attorneys also have experience in taking a workers compensation case to court, if necessary.
