“I’ve filed a claim and gotten medical care…”
“…How soon should I contact a lawyer after a workplace injury?”
As an injured worker, you want to do whatever it takes to make sure your workers compensation claim goes as smoothly as possible. And over and over again, you’ve heard that the best thing you can do to ensure the best outcome is to hire a workers comp lawyer.
But when is the best time to start talking to attorneys? What if you don’t end up needing one?
This guide will give you a better understanding of when (and why) to hire a workers compensation lawyer.
Why Do I Need a Workers Comp Attorney?
In some cases, you don’t.
In Florida, the workers compensation system is designed to work on its own without legal assistance. In fact, many injured workers are able to receive lost wage reimbursement and medical benefits without any issues whatsoever.
But occasionally, workers’ comp claims do not go as expected. Insurance companies may deny you benefits. Your doctor may send you back to work too soon. In cases like this, having a lawyer can not only ease the process, but it can increase the likelihood of a larger workers compensation settlement.
How Soon Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Workplace Injury?
Knowing when to hire a workers comp lawyer can make all the difference in your case.
Wait too long and you could potentially miss out on expert legal advice (during the time you need it the most). Hire one too quickly, however, and you could end up working with a lawyer you don’t really like.
So, how soon is too soon? I recommend that injured workers start speaking to attorneys as soon as possible.
Remember, just because you meet with a lawyer doesn’t mean you have to hire them. In the event that you do need the services of an attorney later on, you will then have plenty of information to help you make an informed decision.
Most workers comp attorneys offer free case evaluations, which can give you valuable information, not just on your case but on how the attorney operates.
Choosing the Right Lawyer
Your choice in workers compensation lawyers has a huge bearing on the outcome of your case (and it can be difficult to switch), so take the time to choose wisely.
While it is important to have legal representation should you need it, it’s even more crucial that you have an attorney that you trust.
I always advise that injured workers do plenty of research to find an attorney who is a good fit. Ask questions before you hire them to get a better understanding of their experience and how they operate. Inquire about their success rate as well as any details of your case you may be curious about.
Doing the legwork now will ensure that you are happy with your decision later.
Preparing For Your Consultation
The more information you share with your potential attorney, the better they can determine whether you are a good fit.
First, keep detailed documentation about your medical treatment and any communications with your employer and/or the workers compensation insurance company. A good paper trail is not only helpful at keeping your attorney updated on your case, it can make it easier to uphold your claims in court.
Second, write out a detailed account of the incident that led to your accident, making careful note of any safety procedures that were or were not followed.
Finally, write a list of any questions you have for the attorney regarding your case.
Ready For Your Free Consultation?
You may have to visit with several workers comp attorneys before you end up with one that is a good fit for you. For this reason, you should start meeting with attorneys as soon as possible after your accident.
Remember, it costs nothing to meet with an attorney and a consultation is not the same as hiring them. Furthermore, while it is possible to switch attorneys, the process can delay your case.
Taking the time to research and meet with multiple attorneys will give you a better chance at finding satisfactory legal representation and a better workers compensation settlement.
If you have been injured in a workplace accident and are wondering if an attorney is necessary, call the Law Office of Brian D. Tadros today to schedule your free consultation. We practice only workers compensation law and you will always speak to an attorney—not a paralegal or case worker.
