What Happens After You Get Hurt at Work in Missouri?
Oct. 28, 2024
If you live in Missouri - St. Louis, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, or St. Louis County, the Law Offices of Joe Phillips can come to the rescue. Attorney Joe Phillips helps injured workers through challenging times. His legal experience and commitment to justice make us the go-to choice for workers' compensation cases in our service areas.
Understanding Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation is designed to help employees who get injured at work. It provides medical benefits and wage replacement to those who qualify. In Missouri, employers are required by law to carry workers' compensation insurance to cover these costs. Understanding this system is the first step in getting the help you need.
Do This Immediately After an Injury
Taking these steps immediately after an injury can protect your rights and health:
Report the injury: In Missouri, you have 30 days to notify your employer about the incident. Failing to do so could jeopardize your claim.
Seek medical attention: Inform your healthcare provider that your injury is work-related. This ensures that your medical records accurately reflect the cause of your injury, which is critical for your claim.
Document everything: Keep a detailed record of your injury, including how it happened, any witnesses, and the medical treatment you receive. This information will be important when filing your workers' compensation claim.
Contact a workers' compensation attorney: An attorney specializing in workers' compensation law can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of proceeding with your claim.
Follow your employer's procedures: Review and comply with any specific procedures your employer may have for reporting workplace injuries. This may include filling out certain forms or notifying specific departments within your company. Compliance can ensure your claim is processed effectively.
Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim
Following this process can help you secure the benefits you are filing for:
The Claim Process
Once you’ve reported your injury and received medical attention, the next step is to file a workers' compensation claim. In Missouri, your employer should provide you with the necessary forms. Fill them out accurately and submit them as soon as possible.
What Happens Next?
After you file your claim, your employer's insurance company will review it. They may approve the claim, deny it, or request additional information. You must respond promptly to any requests to avoid delays.
Receiving Benefits
If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving workers' compensation benefits. These typically include coverage for medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. Understanding how these benefits work can help you manage your finances during recovery.
Challenges in Workers' Compensation Cases
Here are some challenges you may face during the claims process:
Denied claims: This can happen for various reasons, such as insufficient evidence or missed deadlines. If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision.
Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies may try to minimize their payout. They might argue that your injury isn’t as severe as you claim or that it wasn’t work-related. You must be prepared to counter these arguments.
Delay in receiving benefits: Sometimes, there may be delays in processing your benefits, which can cause financial strain. Maintaining thorough documentation and contacting the insurance company can help mitigate these issues.
Complicated legal procedures: Dealing with the legal aspects of workers' compensation claims can be complicated. An experienced attorney can provide the support and guidance you need to handle your case.
Workers' Compensation Laws in Missouri
Understanding workers' compensation laws in Missouri is necessary for handling the claims process and securing benefits. Here are a few important points you should be aware of:
Coverage and Eligibility
In Missouri, most employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. This law covers almost all workers, with a few exceptions, such as certain agricultural employees and independent contractors.
Types of Benefits
Missouri workers' compensation provides several types of benefits, including medical treatment, temporary total disability, permanent partial disability, and vocational rehabilitation. Knowing what you’re entitled to can help you maximize your benefits.
Time Limits
Missouri law imposes strict time limits on filing workers' compensation claims. You must report your injury within 30 days and file a claim within two years of the injury or the last payment of benefits. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your rights to benefits.
Workers’ Compensation Attorney in St. Louis, Missouri
The Law Offices of Joe Phillips strives to level the playing field for people affected by catastrophic injury or wrongful death. The firm knows how challenging the legal system is, and the attorney is committed to obtaining justice for you.
Attorney Joe Phillips started his career defending large corporations and insurance companies in various litigation cases. For the past fifteen years, he has dedicated his practice to representing plaintiffs seriously harmed by negligence or dangerous products.
Call the Law Offices of Joe Phillips to schedule a consultation if you’ve been injured at work and need assistance with your workers' compensation claim in St. Louis, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, or St. Louis County.