Understanding Workers’ Compensation: What You Need to Know About Back Injuries
We frequently see people in Utah who sustained a back injury at work who are denied benefits from the workers’ compensation carrier. It is crucial to understand the how workers’ compensation works, especially if you’re dealing with a back injury. This type of injury is painful, and it can affect your ability to work and perform daily activities.
Let’s dive into what benefits you should expect from the insurance company, common reasons for claim denials, and why consulting with Schriever Law Firm could be your best step forward.
What Benefits Should You Expect?
Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to cover injuries that employees sustain while on the job. If you’ve suffered a back injury at work, you’re generally entitled to several types of benefits, including:
- Medical Benefits: Coverage for all medical treatment related to your back injury, including doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any necessary surgeries. The goal is to help you recover and return to work as soon as possible.
- Disability Benefits: If your back injury prevents you from working, workers’ compensation should provide disability benefits, or lost income. These benefits are a portion of your regular earnings and are categorized based on the severity and duration of your disability—whether it’s temporary or permanent, total or partial.
Why Are Claims Denied?
Despite the protections intended by workers’ compensation, many workers find their claims denied without much, if any, explanation. Here are some common reasons that workers’ compensation denies claims:
- Pre-existing Conditions: We see this frequently in relation to back injuries. If the insurance company believes you had a back injury before you were injured at work, they may deny your claim. However, even if your job aggravated a pre-existing condition, you may still be eligible for compensation.
- Injury Not Reported in Time: In Utah, you must report your injury to your employer within a specific time frame. Sometimes employers will encourage people not to file a timely claim. Other times, the employer holds off on reporting because they think they may get better, only to find out that their injuries are lasting longer than they though.
- Discrepancies in Your Claim: If there are inconsistencies in your story or between your account and medical records, your claim might be denied.
- Lack of Evidence That the Injury is Work-Related: You need to prove that your injury occurred in the course of employment. This can be challenging, especially in cases where injuries develop over time, such as with repetitive strain injuries.
Why Call Schriever Law Firm?
If you’re facing a denied workers’ compensation claim or are unsure about your rights, you should seek professional advice. Here’s why Schriever Law Firm can be a valuable ally:
- Experience and Expertise: We have extensive experience in workers’ compensation cases, especially those involving back injuries. We understand the complexities of these claims. We know how to gather the necessary evidence to support your case effectively.
- No Upfront Costs: We offer free consultations, and you won’t pay any fees unless we win your case. This means you can get expert legal advice without any financial risk.
- Personalized Attention: We pride ourselves on giving each client personalized attention. We’ll take the time to understand your specific situation and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
- Proven Track Record: We have a history of successfully challenging denied claims, especially those complicated by pre-existing conditions. We’re committed to ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Take the Next Step for Worker’s Compensation and Back Injuries in Utah
Dealing with a back injury is hard, especially when facing the added stress of a workers’ compensation claim. If you’re in Utah and struggling with these issues, don’t go it alone. Contact Schriever Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, guide you through your options, and help you secure the benefits you need to recover and get back on track.
Understanding your rights and the complexities of workers’ compensation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. Remember, when it comes to protecting your health and financial future, having the right attorney by your side can be the key to navigating these challenging waters successfully.
Don’t leave it to chance. Leave it to Schriever!
For Worker’s Compensation and Back Injuries in Utah, call today (801)574-0883