Workers' Compensation Lawyers

Workers' Compensation Lawyers in the United States

Every year, roughly 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries are reported across the country. Workers' compensation exists to cover medical bills and lost wages when you get hurt on the job. But filing a claim and actually receiving fair benefits are two very different things.

What Workers' Compensation Law Covers

Workers' compensation is a state-mandated insurance system that provides benefits to employees injured during the course of employment. It covers physical injuries, repetitive stress conditions, occupational diseases, and in some cases, mental health conditions caused by work.

These claims operate under a no-fault system, meaning you don't need to prove your employer did anything wrong. You only need to show the injury happened at work or because of your job duties. In exchange, you generally give up the right to sue your employer directly.

When to Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

• Your employer or their insurance company denies your claim or disputes that the injury is work-related
• You suffered a serious injury that requires surgery, long-term treatment, or leaves you permanently disabled
• Your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim, such as cutting hours or terminating your position
• The insurance company offers a settlement that doesn't cover your actual medical costs and lost income
• You have a pre-existing condition that the insurer claims is the real cause of your problem

How the Workers' Compensation Process Works

You start by reporting the injury to your employer within the deadline set by your state — this window ranges from a few days to 90 days depending on where you live. Your employer then files a claim with their insurance carrier.

The insurer reviews the claim and either approves or denies it. If denied, you can file an appeal with your state's workers' compensation board. About 20% of claims face some form of dispute. Appeals often involve hearings before an administrative law judge, where medical records and witness testimony carry significant weight.

How Workers' Compensation Benefits Are Calculated

• Temporary total disability payments typically replace about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state-set maximum caps
• Medical benefits cover all reasonable treatment related to the injury, including surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and assistive devices
• Permanent partial disability is calculated using impairment ratings assigned by a physician, combined with your wage history and age
• Permanent total disability applies when you can no longer work in any capacity — benefits may continue for life in some states
• Vocational rehabilitation covers retraining costs if you cannot return to your previous type of work

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be fired for filing a workers' compensation claim?

Retaliating against an employee for filing a claim is illegal in every state. If your employer fires you, demotes you, or reduces your hours after you file, you may have a separate retaliation claim. Document everything and speak with a lawyer quickly.

What if my claim is denied?

A denial is not the final answer. You have the right to appeal, and many denied claims are overturned during the hearing process. The appeals deadline varies by state but is usually 30 to 90 days from the denial notice. Missing that window means losing your right to challenge the decision.