In order to make sure you obtain the full scope of your available Virginia Workers’ Compensation benefits, you’ll want to avoid signing any agreements or awards without first receiving counsel from a Workers’ Compensation attorney. A lawyer will steer you aright and be able to inform you if the settlement is fair, or if your injury merits a better settlement package. 

In addition to having your case reviewed by a Richmond Workers’ Compensation attorney, there are 2 important things you can do to protect your Virginia Workers’ Compensation claim: 

• Follow Instructions – following required Virginia Workers’ Compensation law and procedures is paramount when you’ve been injured at work. After your accident, report your injury to your employer immediately and accept the medical treatment that’s offered. You’ll also need to check in with your employer and see if any additional steps or paperwork are required.
• Document, Document, Document – compile every bit of relevant information following your accident because it could prove extremely instrumental when later proving your injuries. Document information such as the accident itself, your medical reports and prognosis, injury journal entries, coworkers’ testimonies, costs you’ve accrued due your injuries, and lost work time. 

You can also visit the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission’s (VWCC) website and download some important forms and documents that are free to claimants. Additionally, your Workers’ Compensation attorney will be able to provide you with a host of helpful resources to help with your claim. 

Contact a Richmond Workers’ Compensation Attorney 

When you have difficulties with your work-related injury claim, a Virginia workers’ compensation attorney can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a Workers’ Comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 1-877-755-7744 or 1-804-755-7755.

Types of Work-Related Head Injuries 

Tragedy can strike without warning; a normal day on the job quickly can turn into a nightmare when a workplace accident leads to a head injury. Accidents as simple as a trip on a carpet, a scaffolding collapse or an object falling from a shelf can cause traumatic injuries with serious, long-term complications. 

Some workplaces pose numerous safety hazards, setting the stage for common workplace injuries, such as: 

• contusions;
• skull fractures;
• scalp wounds; and
• concussions. 

Often, an employee will suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of a workplace accident, which can lead to serious, long-term complications. They can occur anywhere, too — for instance, a steep fall at a construction site. But even a desk job at an office building in the Biotech and MCV District could lead to a TBI in the event of a stumble, a broken handrail or some other mishap.  

Brain Injury Symptoms  

Head injuries, especially internal injuries such as TBIs, can be difficult to diagnose. The symptoms may appear gradually and not begin to manifest immediately, and because some of the symptoms mimic other health conditions, it can be hard for doctors to link your symptoms to your accident..

The list of possible side effects is long and far-reaching, but some of the symptoms of a workplace head injury might include: 

• dizziness and nausea;
• confusion, disorientation and memory problems;
• headaches and sensitivity to lights and sounds;
• seizures; and
• personality changes. 

Head injuries may have devastating long-term implications and leave an employee unable to continue living and working in the same manner as prior to the accident. 

Filing for Virginia Workers’ Comp 

Before you embark on the Workers’ Compensation claim process, you might want to discuss your accident with a Virginia work injury lawyer who regularly handles common workplace injuries, such as work-related head trauma. Claims for workplace injuries can become quite complicated with a complex head injury, and an attorney can help make sure you get all the benefits that you’re entitled to. 

The basic Virginia Workers’ Compensation claim process involves: 

• reporting your accident to your employer (as soon as possible);
• getting medical treatment and abiding by the doctors’ orders;
• filling out Workers’ Comp forms and submitting them to the designated place;
• receiving paperwork from the insurer either accepting or denying your claim; and
• receiving an award letter (if accepted) or filing an appeal (if denied). 

Difficulties with Head Injury Claims 

Stalls in the award letter, adhering to time limitations, the possibility of third party claims, wrongly denied claims, workplace discrimination and shady insurance tactics can cause claim complications and significant frustration. 

Additionally, you’ll have the burden of proving the extent of your injury, which can be quite difficult with composite head injuries that don’t necessarily have telltale symptoms that fit neatly into a box. 

When your life or the life of your loved one has been forever changed because of a work accident, the Virginia Workers’ Comp law is supposed to protect you and provide you a means to receive benefits while incapacitated. You deserve to be able to receive the full extent of those benefits in order to pay the bills and cover your medical expenses. 

If you run into problems at any stage of the Workers’ Compensation claim process, speak with a Virginia work injury lawyer who handles common workplace injuries to receive practical, pertinent legal counsel and help obtaining your benefits.

Contact a Virginia Work Injury Lawyer 

When you have difficulties with the Workers’ Compensation claim process, a Virginia work injury attorney can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a Workers’ Comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 1-877-755-7744 or 1-804-755-7755.

Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim in Virginia 

After you report your injury to your employer, they should file a report of the accident. This report should be mailed to their insurance carrier, who in turn should notify the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission that your injury was reported.  

You should then receive a call from an insurance adjuster who will ask for a recorded statement about the accident. Keep in mind that the purpose of getting a recorded statement is to get you to say anything that will damage your claim. Therefore it’s best that you speak with an attorney before you speak with an insurance adjuster.  

If your claim is accepted, you should receive payments valued at two-thirds of your weekly salary. However, if a report of your accident was never mailed to the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, you could lose benefits in the long run, even if you are currently receiving payments. 

It’s important that you understand Virginia Workers’ Compensation rules when filing a workers’ comp claim. A Richmond attorney who has helped many clients file a workers’ comp claim can help you take steps to protect your financial well-being after a workplace accident. 

Contact a Richmond Attorney 

When you have difficulties with your work-related injury claim, a Virginia Workers’ Compensation law firm can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 877-755-7744 or 804-755-7755.

If you try settling a workers’ comp claim without the guidance of a Richmond attorney, you may not receive all compensation to which you’re entitled. A shrewd attorney can help you avoid certain mistakes that could leave you at a loss. 

Virginia Workers’ Compensation: 5 Costly Mistakes  

The first mistake you’ll want to avoid is the misconception that the insurance adjuster, who may come across as cordial, will keep your best interests in mind. Keep in mind that the insurance adjuster works for the insurance company, and he or she is looking out for their employer’s bottom line. A Richmond attorney, on the other hand, will work for you. 

Insurance adjusters understand Virginia Workers’ Compensation law and they will do all they can to minimize your injuries or deny settling your workers’ comp claim.  

The second mistake to avoid is failing to pursue a claim because your employer or an insurance adjuster says you don’t have a claim. It’s common for an insurance adjuster to deny a claim, and if you don’t fight for compensation that’s rightfully yours under Virginia Workers’ Compensation law, you lose. When a claim is denied, there could be a 4- to 6-month delay in receiving compensation, which saves the insurance company money. 

Employers may even try to trick injured workers by saying they won’t accept your claim if you wait more than 24 hours after the accident before notifying them. This doesn’t mean you can’t file a claim. As your Richmond attorney will explain, you have 2 years to file a claim, and you have 30 days to notify your employer. 

Workers’ Comp Claim vs. Personal Injury Claim 

The third mistake to avoid is thinking that a workers’ comp claim is too similar to a personal injury claim. On most levels, they differ. Injured workers can’t file a personal injury lawsuit against their employer. The only remedy, aside from third-party claims, is Workers’ Compensation. Furthermore, in a personal injury case, you can get compensation for physical and emotional pain and suffering. 

However, when settling a workers’ comp claim, you can get two-thirds of your weekly wages and compensation for medical bills, but nothing for pain and suffering. There will be no private agreement; everything will be based on Virginia Workers’ Compensation law. 

The fourth mistake to avoid is hiding an old injury from your Richmond attorney or misrepresenting your activity level. If you aggravate a pre-existing injury in a workplace accident, it’ll be covered under Virginia Workers’ Compensation law. 

Since there’s no doctor/patient privilege involved in settling a workers’ comp claim, the insurance adjuster can easily access your medical records. If it’s determined that you withheld information about an old injury, you’ll lose credibility and your claim will be in jeopardy. If you misrepresent your activity level, your credibility will also be shot. 

The fifth mistake to avoid is failing to report and file your claim. Even if you think your workplace injury is minor, you should still report it, because it could turn to be severe. 

Understand that the following kinds of injuries could lead to permanent damage if ignored: 

• neck;
• back;
• shoulder; or
• knees. 

If you do report your injury but fail to file a workers’ comp claim, you may receive voluntary payments, but those payments will stop after about 2 years, when the statute of limitations runs out. 

Take steps now to protect your legal rights by acquiring the assistance of a Virginia Workers’ Compensation law firm. 

Contact a Richmond Attorney for Help Settling a Workers’ Comp Claim 

When you have difficulties with your work-related injury claim, a Virginia Workers’ Comp attorney can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 877-755-7744 or 804-755-7755.

The most common workplace injuries seen in a Virginia Workers’ Compensation claim include: 

• overexertion of a body part;
• falls on flat surfaces or from heights;
• injury from falling debris or flying objects;
• repetitive motion damages;
• automobile accidents while driving for work;
• exposure to dangerous temperatures;
• severed or crushed limbs;
• chemical spills;
• exposure to toxic materials; and
• blunt force trauma. 

Many of these injuries can cause long-term or permanent disabilities, and in severe cases, can even lead to death. Workers’ Comp cases are designed to provide financial relief to workers and their families who have been devastated by the impact of a serious injury. 

Even though these are common workplace injuries, they can cause some very serious long-term complications. Disfigurement, amputation, paralysis and chronic pain are just a few of the long-term risks you face after an accident. 

Whether you’ve suffered one of these common workplace injuries or an injury more unique to your profession, Richmond, Virginia, attorneys with a focus on Virginia Workers’ Compensation can help you seek compensation. You have the right to file Workers’ Comp cases when an accident related to your job causes you severe injury, and an attorney can help you protect those rights. 

Contact Our Richmond, Virginia, Attorneys for Workers’ Comp Cases 

When you have difficulties with a claim for common workplace injuries,Richmond, Virginia, attorneys who focus their practice on Workers’ Comp cases can bear some of the burden for you. If you return to work or receive a permanent disability rating, an attorney can help. 

For more information about Virginia Workers’ Compensation, pick up a free copy of the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 1-877-755-7744 or 1-804-755-7755.

Filing your claim for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia may start with your employer, but it’s ultimately the insurance company that will approve or deny your compensation. Because they want to settle claims for as little as possible, they will often use these 4 tactics to hinder your injury case. 

Dirty Trick #1 – Voluntarily Paid Benefits 

It may sound like a good thing at first; the insurance company voluntarily agrees to pay you some benefits. The problem is that they often do this without your knowledge and never inform you that they are only obligated to pay these benefits during the 2-year statute of limitations. 

If you just accept these automatic benefits, never file your claim for benefits and seek an Award order, your payments may stop completely after the 2-year mark. If you do not begin the Workers’ Compensation claims process before the 2-year limit, you may lose out on benefits for injuries not listed on your claim form. 

Dirty Trick #2 – Recorded Statements 

Don’t let an insurance adjuster involved in your Virginia Workers’ Comp claim persuade you to give a recorded statement until you’ve talked to an attorney for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia. You are NOT obligated to give a statement to your employer or the insurance company without consulting your attorney first, and doing so may leave you open to damaging your claim. 

Insurance adjusters often try to get a recorded statement within the first 2-3 days of the Workers’ Compensation claims process. This is done to catch you off guard, often while you’re on strong pain medication and not completely focused on the details of the accident. They will interrupt you, lead you into saying damaging things, and pressure you to say something that will make your injuries less substantial or show that the accident was your fault. 

Dirty Trick #3 – Private Investigators 

The moment you file Workers’ Compensation claims, the process begins and your personal life goes under review. It’s not uncommon for an insurance company to hire private investigators to watch your conduct following a serious workplace accident. They say they do this to cut down on fraudulent claims, but the evidence collected could be used to skew or deny legitimate claims. 

These private investigators watch the actions of claimants for Virginia Workers’ Comp to see if they’re still working elsewhere, not following their work restrictions or doctors’ orders, or if they are capable of more physical activity than reported in their claim. 

Dirty Trick #4 – Misleading Paperwork 

Any forms or agreements your insurance adjuster tries to get you to sign should first be reviewed by an attorney for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia.  It’s not uncommon for an insurance company to have you sign the agreement form to be submitted to the Virginia Workers’ Comp Commission, yet never submit it to them. This means you are never under an open award and, therefore, may be missing out on benefits. 

The other thing they often do is to omit important details in your agreement forms, such as injured body areas. If you sign this agreement without all of your injuries listed, your benefits for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia will cover only what is on the form. This also can occur with wage reports, where they take your employer’s word on what your average weekly wage is, rather than obtaining exact proof of your rightful benefits. 

If you want to protect yourself from the dirty tricks of the insurance companies and give your Virginia Workers’ Comp claim a fighting chance, contact an attorney for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia. Before beginning the Workers’ Compensation claims process, you should involve your attorney so you can avoid being taken advantage of. 

Contact an Attorney Before Starting the Workers’ Compensation Claims Process 

When you have difficulties after a work-related injury in Virginia, a Workers’ Comp attorney can bear some of your burden. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the Workers’ Compensation settlement amounts you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact an attorney for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 1-877-755-7744.

This is where an attorney at a law firm in Richmond, Virginia, comes in. A Workers’ Compensation lawyer will be able to:  

• review your case;
• collect important evidence;
• advise you on possible legal options; and
• help prevent you from making mistakes that may make your workers’ comp benefits null and void. 

For example, if you hurt your back while working at a construction site in the River District and miss a few of your scheduled doctors’ or chiropractic appointments, you may not know just how much that could damage your case. 

Some of the common mistakes employees make after a work-related accident include: 

• lying about past injuries;
• not following doctors’ orders;
• jumping at the first settlement they throw your way;
• believing the workers’ comp insurance carriers are on your side;
• not pursing a claim because the employer told you that you really don’t have a case;
• not notifying the employer of the injury within 30 days; and
• failing to file the workers’ comp claim within the allotted time period. 

For questions about Virginia Workers’ Compensation law or how to go about getting the best settlement for your Virginia workers’ comp claim, consult with a reputable law firm in Richmond, Virginia. 

Contact a Law Firm in Richmond, Virginia 

When you have difficulties with your work-related injury claim, a Virginia workplace injury attorney can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation –804-755-7755.

What is a third-party claim? 

In legalese, a third-party claim is a term for a tort claim in which an injured worker files against someone other than his or her employer. 

Under Virginia law, employees can’t sue their employer. Instead, they usually opt to file for workers’ comp. However, in many workplace accidents, a third-party may also be partly liable for the injuries. In these situations, you can file a third-party claim, which has the potential to result in a much larger settlement than workers’ comp cases. 

Workers’ compensation benefits are often inadequate. If you’ve suffered a life-altering injury at work your limited workers’ comp benefits may not be enough to sustain you or your family. Also, neither will they make up for all the pain and suffering you’ve experienced as a result of your injuries. 

For example, if you were doing construction work on one of the buildings in Capitol Square, had an accident due to faulty equipment, and suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result, will temporary workers’ comp benefits really atone for all the painful repercussions you’re facing? 

Types of Third-Party Injury Claims 

There are several types of work-related instances in which a third-party claim for personal injury compensation may be in order. 

• Construction accidents – if you’re injured while working at a site, there may a host of third parties that can be held responsible including contractors, subcontractors, a property owner, heavy equipment operators, or defective equipment manufacturers.
• Car accidents – if you were on delivery or driving a vehicle for a work-related duty, or if you were injured in a car accident while on duty that was caused by a driver who’s not a co-worker, a third party claim may be an option.
• Slip and fall accidents – if you sustain injuries in a slip and fall accident at work, the property owner may be considered a negligent party, depending upon the circumstances. 

Before going through with your work injury compensation claim, contact a law firm in Richmond, VA, to see if a third-party claim may be applicable. 

Proving Negligence for a Personal Injury Claim 

A work injury compensation claim varies from a personal injury claim in a number of ways, one of which is the burden of proof. 

If you and your attorney at law firm in Richmond, VA , establish that a third-party claim is the right route for you to take, you’ll have the burden of proving the responsible party’s negligence to the courts in order to receive any personal injury compensation. 

In order to win your case, you and your attorney will have to show that: 

• the third party owed you a legal duty of care;
• they failed to carry out that duty;
• the responsible party’s negligence caused your injuries; and
• you sustained real and calculable damages as a result of the accident. 

As it stands, this is easier said than done. Establishing proof in a third party claim requires the counsel and skill of an experienced law firm in Richmond, VA. 

Filing a Third-Party Claim 

In Virginia, you must obtain the permission from Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission in order to proceed with any claims. This includes third party claims, which are usually contingent upon your workers’ comp claim settlement. 

It’s important to note that if you try to file a third party claim without informing your employer or the insurance carrier, you’ll forfeit all your workers’ comp benefits – you’ll want to avoid this at all costs. Your attorney can help ensure that you abide by the board’s rules and regulations. 

There are no simple, one-size-fits-all solutions for work injury claims; each case is unique. If you’ve sustained a work injury and think you may qualify for personal injury compensation, consult with an attorney who can go over your options with you. 

A work injury compensation claim may not grant you the means to pay all your bills or continue taking care of your family. You owe it to yourself and your family to see if there are any other forms of financial remuneration you may be able to collect. 

Contact a Law Firm in Richmond, VA 

When you have difficulties with your work-related injury claim, a Virginia workplace injury attorney can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 804-755-7755.

The process for requesting a Workers’ Comp hearing generally involves the following: 

• a claim for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia must be filed (whether or not you are being paid for missed time from work);
• copies of medical records must be obtained from your doctor; and
• medical records must be filed with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. 

There are 2 parts to the form that must be submitted when requesting a hearing. It is usually best to attach your medical records to the form. If you are having difficulty understanding the forms, you may need to contact the Commission. In addition, if you are having trouble getting the medical records that you need, the Commission may also need to be contacted. 

However, when you have questions concerning workers law and your right to benefits, you should seek legal counsel. The process of seeking Workers’ Compensation in Virginia is not necessarily an easy task. 

Your employer or their insurance carrier may attempt to deny your claim. Even if you are eligible to receive benefits, you may find the process difficult to navigate. Many workers do not fully understand their rights as employees, which is why a law firm inRichmondwho handles Workers’ Comp claims can help. 

Facing a Workers’ Comp Hearing? Contact a Law Firm in Richmond 

When you have difficulties with your work-related injury claim, a lawyer can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney for a no-cost consultation – 1-877-755-7744 or 1-804-755-7755.

Although your work injury in Virginia may lead to Workers’ Comp benefits, they could be limited. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your situation, those benefits may not cover the losses you have suffered adequately. In some cases, other benefits could also be available. 

Other Benefits Impacting Your Workers’ Compensation Claim in Virginia 

Whether or not you were at fault for a work injury in Virginia, you are usually entitled to receive Workers’ Comp benefits. Once you accept those benefits, however, you are no longer able to pursue litigation against your employer or co-workers. 

However, additional compensation may be available. For instance, if there was another party involved who does not work for your employer, that party potentially could be held liable through a third-party claim.  

An example would be if you were driving the company car and were struck by another driver who was found to be at fault, then you may be able to pursue a claim against them for your injuries. Any compensation you would receive from a third-party claim would have to be approved by the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. A Virginia Workers’ Comp lawyer can help determine if a third party claim is a possibility in your case and if you are entitled to both types of compensation. 

When a work injury in Virginia leads to disability, you may be able to collect Social Security disability benefits. The amount, however, may be reduced depending on the specifics of your case. Before filing a Workers’ Comp claim and pursuing Social Security disability benefits, you may wish to speak with a Virginia Workers’ Comp lawyer to learn how this may impact your compensation. 

If you receive Medicare, this may impact your benefits for Workers’ Compensation in Virginia. It is expected that your medical expenses will be covered under Workers’ Comp. Medicare will not pay for any of those. 

However, if a mistake is made and Medicare somehow ends up paying your medical bills, they have the right to recover those funds. Otherwise, a lien may be placed on any benefits you are entitled to receive. 

This is why it is advised that you learn what the guidelines are for dealing with Medicare and your claim for Workers’ Compensation inVirginia. A lawyer may be able to help. 

Short-term and long-term disability benefits may also impact your Workers’ Comp claim. If your claim for Workers’ Comp is denied, you may be able to receive short or long-term disability benefits while you pursue an appeal. This can become very complicated, which is another reason to seek help from a lawyer. 

Unemployment benefits may be available if your Workers’ Comp claim was denied and you are able to perform light-duty work. However, if you are not able to work at all, you cannot receive unemployment. 

If your employer does not allow for light-duty accommodations or you are laid off from work, then you may be able to receive unemployment. However, if after your claim is finally settled and you win, the unemployment benefits you receive will need to be repaid.  

After a work injury inVirginiayou may have a lot of questions and concerns about the impact other benefits will have. These cases can become quite complicated and time-consuming to deal with. Contacting a lawyer immediately is the best way to learn what your rights are and what you can do in order to protect them. 

Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim? Contact a Virginia Workers’ Comp Lawyer 

When you have difficulties with filing a Workers’ Comp claim, a lawyer can bear some of the burden you’ve been placed under. To get back on your feet, whether it means getting back to work or getting the benefits you deserve, order a copy of our free book, the Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia, and contact a workers’ comp attorney at the Injured Workers Law Firm for a no-cost consultation – 1-877-755-7744 or 1-804-755-7755.