Winning big isn’t really how you should think of your impending workers compensation claim. Winning fair is how you should think of it. In Staten Island employers are compelled to have workers compensation insurance to deal with claims. Savino and Smollar are workers compensation lawyers based in Staten Island who understand your needs.

When Can You Represent Yourself?

Even in these seemingly simple situations, it’s preferable to contact a workers’ compensation attorney for a consultation about your case. The lawyer can explain the process, make you aware of any issues, and give you a realistic idea if you should file the paperwork alone.

This could be true if you suffered a minor workplace injury where you missed little or no work due to that injury. If your employer admits liability the process should be straightforward. Finally, as long as you don’t have a pre-existing condition that affects the same part of your body as the recent workplace injury there should be no questions as to your case. In these circumstances, the compensation claims are fairly easy to manage.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Your Employer Denies Your Claim.

Employers and workers’ comp insurers routinely reject bona fide workers’ comp claims, confident that many workers will fail to appeal. Unfortunately, they’re usually correct. Hiring a workers’ comp attorney costs nothing up front (more on that later), and it gives you the best chance to receive a fair settlement or award for your injuries.

The Settlement Offer Doesn’t Cover All Your Finances.

If you’re not sure a settlement offer is good enough, don’t rely on the workers’ compensation judge to make sure that you’re getting a fair deal. Although workers’ comp settlements must have judicial approval, judges will usually sign off on any agreement as long as it’s not grossly unfair. If you really want someone to get you the best settlement possible, call an attorney.

Your Issues Stop You From Doing Your Job.

If your injury stops you from doing your job you may be entitled to money to make up for your lost wages. Employers will do whatever they can to minimize these payments. A knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney is essential in cases involving permanent injuries or illness.

Employer’s Retribution.

If they have shown in any other form of discrimination as a result of your claim protect your rights or if you were injured because of a third party’s actions contact a lawyer. This system was designed to prevent civil lawsuits for work-related injuries. However, you can sue someone other than your employer who contributed to your injury.  Furthermore, if your employer doesn’t have workers’ comp insurance, an experienced lawyer will be able to explain how the law applies to your situation.

What Your Attorney Will Do For You.

Your attorney will file all the necessary forms promptly. With a statute of limitations on all claims, your lawyer will not miss any deadlines. After that, the lawyer will oversee the collation of the evidence needed to support your case. This is vital to show the insurance company the extent of your injuries. A lawyer knows how to negotiate effectively with the insurance company and write a favorable settlement agreement. The settlement will be clear and without any hidden clauses that may prevent you from being paid fairly.

The workers’ compensation system was intended to provide quick and fair compensation to employees injured at work. Unfortunately, it seems to benefit employers. Remember that insurance companies have teams of compensation claims lawyers looking at each case. Engaging the services of a qualified lawyer will mean you have someone on your side. Lawyers at Savino and Smollar are highly qualified and experienced attorneys who will guide you through the process of claiming your workers compensation. This Staten Island-based firm deliver a warm, personalized service to tilt the scales of justice in your favor.