You should apply for workers’ compensation if you are injured or fall ill on the job. Louisiana law allows you to recover compensation for your medical expenses and lost income while you recover.
A Cankton workers’ compensation lawyer from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can investigate your case, gather evidence to support your claim, file an appeal if your claim is denied, or seek compensation through a third-party civil lawsuit. If your loved one passed away as a result of a workplace injury or illness, we can help you recover benefits to help your family at this difficult time.
Common Workplace Accidents and Injuries in Cankton, LA
Your workplace can pose potential hazards even if you are not working in an industry that you see as dangerous. Common types of workplace accidents include:
- Falls from heights
- Machinery malfunctions
- Slip and fall accidents
- Exposure to hazardous substances
- Explosions
- Electrocution
- Vehicle and transportation accidents
This is not an exhaustive list. Any of these accidents can cause serious injuries that could keep you out of work for a while. That means missed paychecks and added financial stress.
Injuries You May Suffer While Working
Workers’ compensation protects employees who suffer injuries on the job. Your injury does not have to be a severe, life-changing one. You can apply for workers’ compensation when you suffer from any of the following:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- The development of an illness
- Burns
- Partial or full loss of hearing or vision
- Repetitive motion or overexertion injuries
- The development of mental distress or PTSD as a result of an acute injury or illness
You may qualify for compensation due to mental stress caused by your workplace injury under The Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Act. But this applies only under certain circumstances. A Cankton workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm can analyze your case and determine if this type of damage is recoverable.
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Applying for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Cankton
You must notify your employer of your injury within 30 days or risk losing your chance to pursue workers’ compensation benefits.
Then you or your employer will have to report the injury to the company’s workers’ compensation insurer. The Louisiana Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration (OWCA) will also evaluate your claim and could ask you to submit to a medical exam from a doctor they choose.
If your application is approved, you can begin collecting workers’ compensation. Typically, these payments are weekly and are meant to cover a portion of your wages. Your benefits can help cover:
- Medical bills
- The cost of future care
- A loss of earning potential
- Vocational rehabilitation
Unfortunately, sometimes these benefits are not enough to cover your full damages. A workers’ compensation attorney serving Cankton can determine if a third party is liable for your injuries. In that case, you can seek compensation via a personal injury lawsuit. You could be entitled to financial recovery for:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disability or scarring
- Other work-related injuries causing physical and emotional distress
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If Your Employer Denies Your Workers’ Compensation Application
Unfortunately, a workers’ compensation application can be denied. In some cases, your employer might accuse you of wrongdoing, such as:
- Your injury did not occur at the workplace or during work hours
- You caused your own injury by engaging in “horseplay” or irresponsible activities
- You were under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Your own preexisting condition caused your injuries or illness
- You are otherwise lying about your injury
In cases like these, you need to file an appeal. The Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration (OWCA) has the required forms. Your case could settle in mediation, or you may need to go to a hearing in front of a workers’ compensation judge. The Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers team can handle negotiations or attend all hearings on your behalf.
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How Our Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Assist With Your Appeal
Your lawyer will handle every aspect of your workers’ compensation case from start to finish, advocating for you and your family by doing the following:
- Gathering evidence needed to make your claim: your lawyer can seek out security footage or talk to eyewitnesses who saw your accident. They can look at your company’s safety record and collect any other evidence needed to show that your injury or illness is a result of your work.
- Handling all communications for you: you do not have to worry about talking to insurers or presenting your case to a judge. Your attorney will handle all communications for you and keep you updated on your case.
- Defending you from accusations: if your company is blaming you for the accident or accusing you of lying, your attorney is ready to defend you and show why you deserve workers’ compensation benefits.
- Making your case in front of a workers’ compensation judge: if you do not reach a settlement, your lawyer is prepared to represent you at a hearing. They can prepare you, so you know what to expect, and then they will make your case to the judge and help you fight for your benefits.
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The Cost of a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
You may worry you cannot afford an attorney during this tough time. We believe all injured workers deserve legal representation. Our law firm works on contingency. That means that there is no upfront fee. We get paid when you win.
We understand that you probably have enough financial stress to deal with while healing from your injuries. You will have no out-of-pocket costs while our attorney handles your case.
Get Your Free Consultation Today
If you are ready to fight for the benefits you deserve, contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers. Call today for a free consultation, and we can tell you how one of our workers’ compensation lawyers serving Cankton can assist with your case. The call is free, and there is no obligation.
Get The HelpYou Need(337) 777-7777To Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION
24 hours a day • 7 days a week
