Why Hire an Attorney for your Workers’ Compensation Case?
You might be eligible for workers' compensation benefits if you were hurt at work in Oklahoma. However, if you are dealing with a serious injury, navigating the complex legal system can be overwhelming. You can make sure that you get the money you need for compensation and the medical attention you require by hiring a skilled attorney who is familiar with Oklahoma workers' compensation/law. In this blog post, we will go over the benefits of hiring an attorney for a workers' compensation case in Oklahoma.
Many Oklahomans wonder whether they can afford to hire an attorney for their case. The answer is yes, you can afford it; in fact, you cannot afford not to. Most attorneys who represent injured workers in Oklahoma will take your case on a contingency basis, which is exactly what we do at The Chaney Law Firm. What that means is that it costs you no money upfront to hire me as your attorney for your is that workers' compensation case. I will take a percentage of the monetary benefits I get you; which means that if I do not win you some money, you owe NOTHING. Other than the obvious, the great thing about handling the case this way is that it permanently links your financial interest in your case with mine. The more you get paid, the more I get paid. The quicker you get paid, the quicker I get paid. WE ARE IN IT TOGETHER!
1. Protect Your Rights
Oklahoma has complicated and dynamic workers' compensation laws. In fact, most people are shocked to learn that Oklahoma has some of the lowest benefits in the nation for injured workers. This gives you even more justification to ensure that you receive all your due compensation. Without the assistance of an experienced attorney who is familiar with the laws and regulations, navigating the system can be difficult. Although you are not required to hire legal counsel in order to pursue benefits, the adjuster has complete discretion if you do not and your case has not yet been submitted to the Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Commission. Your benefits may be stopped at any time.
2. Navigate the Legal System
Even more so if you are dealing with an injury, the legal system can be difficult to understand, slow, and complex. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the process, clarify legal jargon and procedures, and clarify your rights and obligations. Yes, the legal system can be cumbersome; however, this is even more reason to get started right away and hire an attorney who will vigorously pursue your interests. That is specifically what The Chaney Law Firm is renowned for.
3. Obtain the Compensation to which You are Entitled
Medical costs, weekly payments, while you are off work due to a work-related injury, permanent disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, pain management, and other benefits, are all covered by workers' compensation. By analyzing your situation, compiling evidence, negotiating with insurance providers and employers, and advocating for you in court, an attorney can assist you in getting the compensation you are due. I have tried hundreds of cases at The Chaney Law Firm throughout my career, and when a trial is in your best interest, I will not hesitate to represent you in court.
4. Dealing with Insurance Companies
Because Oklahoma's benefits for injured workers are among the lowest in the nation, insurance companies are well known for trying to reduce the amount of money they pay to injured workers. This makes it even simpler in Oklahoma. As previously mentioned, the adjuster is free to take any action he or she sees fit if your case hasn't been submitted to the Commission. Your employer may have reported the claim to the insurance provider, but that does not mean the case has been taken to court or has been reported to the Commission. A pleading (Form 3) must be submitted to the Commission for your case to proceed to litigation. The insurance provider may try to reduce or reject your claim, postpone payments, or make insufficient settlement offers. Therefore, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side to deal with insurance companies and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. At The Chaney Law Firm, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle these complex negotiations and fight for your rights as an injured worker.
5. Providing Expert Legal Knowledge and Experience
Workers' compensation laws are complex and can be challenging to comprehend without the right legal training. Employing a lawyer with experience in workers' compensation cases gives you access to their in-depth legal knowledge and experience handling cases just like yours. They can give you professional guidance, respond to your inquiries, and assist you in making decisions about your case. They can also advocate for your interests and shield you from any pitfalls or errors that might damage your case.
6. Reducing Stress and Time Investment
It can take a lot of time and energy to deal with a workers' compensation claim, especially if you are still trying to get better from your injuries. You can concentrate on your health and well-being while leaving the legal details to a professional if you hire an attorney to handle your case. At The Chaney Law Firm, we can handle the paperwork, discussions, and court cases on your behalf, saving you time and lowering your stress levels, allowing you to recover more quickly and with better outcomes.
To summarize, it is essential to hire a workers' compensation lawyer in order to protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, navigate the legal system, maximize your compensation, and gain access to expert legal knowledge and experience. With help, you can make sure that your case is handled properly and that you get the money you need to cover your work-related injuries. If you have been hurt at work, do not be reluctant to seek legal counsel; it could mean the difference between success and failure.