My nurse case manager is trying to get my doctor to change my treatment plan, work restrictions, etc. What should I do?
Posted by Michele Lewane | FAQ, Injured Workers Law Firm, Uncategorized
This comes close to what is known as “managing medical treatment.” In Virginia, no one but the treating physician can direct medical treatment, not even your nurse case manager. If you feel your nurse case manager is attempting to persuade your doctor to change the treatment plan or your restrictions, he or she is very …
I was injured on a construction site while I was working as an independent contractor. Can I still get Virginia workers’ compensation benefits for my injury?
Posted by Michele Lewane | FAQ, Injured Workers Law Firm, Uncategorized
The answer to this question depends on the very specific facts of your case. The Virginia workers’ compensation laws determine who is considered an “employee” of a company and who is an independent contractor. Just because you are labeled an independent contractor does not make you one under workers’ compensation. The issue is the degree …
Everything You Need to Know About Concussions
Posted by Michele Lewane | Injured Workers Law Firm
In 2108, there were 2.8 million reported nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the United States. This number includes 77,660 nonfatal head injuries related to a workplace accident or illness. Of those, 16,210 were diagnosed as concussions and another 1,320 involved an unspecified brain injury. Concussions and other types of brain injuries are all-too-common in …
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Are Virginia Workers’ Compensation Benefits Taxable?
Posted by Michele Lewane | Hiring A Lawyer, Injured Workers Law Firm, Settlement, Workers' Compensation Benefits
Many people have asked whether their workers’ compensation benefits are taxable. The simple answer is that workers’ compensation benefits are not taxable. However, as with most legal issues, the answer is really not so simple. There are two parts to workers’ compensation benefits. These include medical treatment and lost wage benefits (or indemnity benefits.) The …
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Workers Compensation Death Benefits
Posted by Michele Lewane | Injured Workers Law Firm, Workers' Compensation Benefits
Work-related fatalities are tragic misfortunes for any family. If a loved one has unexpectedly passed away as a result of a work injury, workers’ compensation benefits may be the last thing on the decedent’s family’s mind. However, you should know that there may be benefits available through Virginia workers’ compensation to help during this difficult …
Why the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Company Wants a Recorded Statement
Posted by Michele Lewane | Injured Workers Law Firm, Uncategorized
What should I do when the workers’ compensation insurance company wants me to give a written or recorded statement? After a Virginia work accident (especially accidents involving serious injuries or death) you can expect the workers’ compensation insurance company to be calling you so they can take a “statement“. There is a reason they are …
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When Can I Get a Second Opinion?
Posted by Michele Lewane | Injured Workers Law Firm, Uncategorized
When you have had a work injury in Virginia and are dealing with the Virginia Workers Compensation system, there are often times when a medical opinion will be needed from a doctor other than the injured worker’s treating physician. There any many reasons why this would be. However, not all second opinions are required to …
New Fines for Employers Who Don’t Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance Coverage
Posted by Injured Workers Law Firm | Injured Workers Law Firm, Workers' Compensation Benefits
I’m pleased to announce that the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission has finally made some updates to their rules and guidelines when it comes to uninsured employers. The new fees and regulations read: “The law change amends section 65.2-805 of the Workers’ Compensation Act which addresses the civil penalty for employer failure to insure. Such employer …
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Being an Advocate for Injured Workers Makes the Difference!
Posted by Injured Workers Law Firm | Hiring A Lawyer, Injured Workers Law Firm
Being advocates for injured workers is what makes a huge difference between the Injured Workers Law Firm and any other run of the mill attorney’s office. My goal is to help all injured workers even if they don’t need to hire an attorney. I have seen first-hand how big insurance companies can take advantage of people …
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What I Hate About March Madness
Posted by Michele Lewane | Injured Workers Law Firm, News
This is hilarious material from our good friend Bob Battle. I hope you all enjoy it. Maybe not Louisville and Duke Fans. What I Hate About March Madness Most of my loyal newsletter subscribers know that I am a huge basketball fan and grew up as a total gym rat. I was known as an …