FAQs Archive - Page 2 of 2

Q: Q: What if I can’t return to work?

A: If your injury prevents you from returning to work for a temporary period of time then you are entitled to receive weekly compensation for the time that you are unable to work. If after receiving medical treatment, you are permanently unable to return to the work place at which you were injured then there are possibilities of receiving what is called Permanent and Total Disability or perhaps for compensation based on your lost earnings capacity. Regardless of the benefit for which you may qualify, the total that you may receive is capped at a certain number of weeks of compensation depending on the benefit awarded.Regardless of benefit for which you may qualify, it is important not to trust that the insurance company or even the employer will maximize your benefits. The motives of the insurance company and the carrier are far different from yours. The insurance carrier’s measurements of success in a claim are driven by paying a little as possible on a claim. Do not rely on the insurance company to explain to you the total benefits that you are entitled to receive. Don’t be fooled or lulled into thinking that you will be treated fairly by the insurance carrier without assistance. Seek the advice of an experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney soon as soon after the injury as possible in order to understand your rights and the benefits available to you.

Q: Q: Will I be able to see the doctor of my choice or do I have to see a company doctor?

A: If the employer and their insurance carrier have agreed that you are entitled to worker’s compensation benefits then they have the right to choose the treating medical doctor. However, special circumstances may exist that may allow the injured employee to seek treatment from a doctor of their choosing. These circumstances are very fact dependent and it will be necessary for you to speak with a worker’s compensation attorney to determine if you have to see the employer’s choice of doctors.If the insurance company has denied the injured worker’s claim then the injured worker may select his own doctor for treatment and file a claim against the insurance company in an attempt to force the insurance company to pay for the medical treatment.

Q: Q: Will my medical bills be paid?

A: The employer is required to pay for all related medical treatment that tends to lessen your disability. As an injured employee, you should not be required to pay any money for medical expenses related to an on the job injury.