Pursuing workers’ compensation can be a lot like dealing with the IRS. There are forms for every step of the process, and for those who are not familiar with the Workers’ Compensation Act, it can be nearly impossible to figure out all of them.
For instance, many forms share similar characteristics but have completely different meanings. There are also several timelines in workers’ comp proceedings that could determine what kinds of benefits you are eligible for. Without specific knowledge of this area of law, you could lose significant value in your case.
As such, it is recommended that you get legal advice for the workers’ compensation filing process in Gainesville. The knowledgeable attorneys at Smith Hulsey could help you navigate the complex system to pursue all the benefits you are entitled to.
The first step in the workers’ comp process is to file a WC-14 notice of claim or request hearing, depending on the case. A well-informed lawyer could determine which form is appropriate for the status of the specific claim. These initiating documents start the litigation process to pursue benefits for a work injury.
Next, there are various other forms which an employee must file in the course of workers’ comp proceedings. However, these documents contain technical language that may be difficult for people to understand without a legal background. For example, there are certain time-sensitive steps that an employee must take following a WC-3 controvert. An employer could use a worker’s lack of understanding to deny their claim for medical treatment or other types of benefits.
Another complex step of the workers’ compensation process involves a filing system called integrated claims management. Without knowing how to use this system, an injured worker must file paper forms and figure out the right administrative office for each document. In this stage of filing for workers’ compensation benefits, nearby legal counsel is often necessary to navigate the complicated administrative proceedings.
One factor that could make the filing process difficult is if an employer does not have the appropriate insurance or does not comply with the Workers’ Compensation Act. If a company does not provide appropriate medical treatment and access to the required panel of physicians, our persistent lawyers could fight the insurance company on behalf of an injured employee.
Employers and their insurance companies may also use various tactics to deny job-related injury claims. In these cases, a dedicated legal team may seek second opinions from experts, doctors, or other employees at the company to build a case for appropriate compensation. At Smith Hulsey, our attorneys have the resources, leverage, and legal knowledge to help an injured individual assert their right to financial recovery.
If you were injured while on the job, let our law firm help you through the workers’ compensation filing process in Gainesville. One of our skilled attorneys could explain exactly what you are entitled to and help create a case plan to achieve those benefits.
After a serious work accident, you should be able to focus on getting better and returning to your pre-injury state. Let us take care of the rest. Reach out to our legal team today to discuss your situation.
Smith Hulsey Law