Recovered Over $300 Million for Our 7,000+ Clients
Millions of workers across the United States suffer job-related injuries every year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and each of these incidents can throw a worker’s life into chaos. Not only do injured workers have to cope with painful injuries, but they must also figure out how to pay their medical expenses and deal with the accident’s emotional toll. Workers’ compensation offers a financial lifeline to injured workers, but employers often contest these workers compensation claims, placing workers in a legal bind.
The Kansas City work injury attorneys at Holland Injury Law, LLC, understand the challenges you face after a work related injury and want to help. We have more than 30 years of experience helping people like you and have recovered more than $300 Million in compensation. Workers’ compensation claims require specific knowledge and experience, and we can manage every aspect of your case from start to finish. Call 816-575-6087 or complete our contact form for a free case evaluation with a workers’ compensation lawyer in Kansas City, MO.
Regardless of their profession, workers in every industry face certain risks as part of their job. These are called workplace accidents. Some of the most common causes of workplace injuries our Kansas City personal injury lawyers see include:
A injured worker may sustain severe injuries from slipping on wet floors, tripping over objects, or falling from heights. These accidents can happen anywhere, from office buildings to construction sites. Obviously though, they should never happen in the first place! A workers compensation attorney will understand what in the area caused your injury, and take steps to hold the responsible party accountable.
Lifting, pulling, pushing, or carrying heavy objects often leads to overexertion injuries. Workers might strain their muscles or hurt their backs, leading to pain and an extended absence from work. Employers have a responsibility to provide appropriate tools and machinery if heavy lifting is a part of the job. In some cases, they may even be required to give back braces or simple supports. Injured workers have rights if they were not properly given those tools or weren’t properly trained. While some jobs require manual labor, there is a difference between doing your job and overexertion.
Injuries can happen when workers get hit by falling, flying, swinging, or rolling objects. This is especially common in warehouses or construction sites where materials might fall from above. Objects falling from scaffolding, forklifts moving equipment, or tools being dropped can lead to severe injuries such as head trauma, fractures, and even fatalities. Proper safety precautions, such as hard hats, secure storage of materials, and well-maintained equipment, are essential to prevent these incidents. But even if you take safety precautions on your end, there may still be people liable. Workers’ compensation can help injured workers cover medical bills and lost wages during recovery.
Working with heavy machinery poses risks. Workers can get caught in or struck by machinery, especially if they don’t know or follow proper safety protocols. These incidents can result in severe injuries such as amputations, crush injuries, and broken bones. How can this be avoided? Employers should enforce strict safety guidelines, make everyone wear protective gear, and require proper training to minimize risks. If they don’t, did they really prepare you? Did they make sure you understood the risks? If you’ve been injured in a machinery-related accident, workers’ compensation benefits are available to cover your medical expenses and lost wages.
Doing the same motions over and over, like typing or assembly line work, can cause repetitive strain injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common example of a repetitive motion injury. Other injuries can include tendonitis, bursitis, and strains in the shoulders, neck, and back. These injuries may not happen suddenly but can develop gradually, leading to chronic pain and limited mobility. Workers’ compensation can help you get treatment for repetitive motion injuries and provide financial support while you recover.
Workers who drive for their jobs, like truck drivers or delivery personnel, face the risk of traffic accidents. These accidents can happen due to various factors, including road conditions, weather, vehicle malfunctions, or other drivers’ negligence. Companies could fail to maintain their vehicles properly. Vehicles accidents can result in serious injuries like whiplash, broken bones, head trauma, or even fatalities. If you’ve suffered these injuries, requesting legal services may be in your best interests.
Some jobs involve working with hazardous materials or in dangerous conditions, leading to illness or injury. This can include exposure to chemicals, asbestos, toxic fumes, extreme temperatures, or high noise levels. Over time, workers may develop illnesses such as respiratory issues, skin conditions, hearing loss, or long-term diseases like mesothelioma or cancer. Even short-term exposure can cause immediate injuries, such as chemical burns or poisoning. Proper safety measures, protective gear, and training are essential to minimize on the job injury. If you’ve suffered from exposure to harmful substances or dangerous work environments, workers’ compensation may provide coverage for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
Sadly, many workplace injuries occur due to acts of violence in the workplace, either between coworkers or involving outside parties. This can include physical assaults, threats, or harassment. High-stress environments, job-related frustrations, or interactions with the public can contribute to these incidents. Healthcare workers, law enforcement personnel, and retail employees are particularly vulnerable to workplace violence. Such incidents can result in physical injuries like broken bones, lacerations, or concussions, as well as emotional trauma. If you’ve been injured due to workplace violence, workers’ compensation can help you recover by covering medical expenses and offering support for psychological care and lost wages.
When you suffer an injury at work, your first step should be to engage the help of a workers comp attorney in Kansas City, MO. You must also report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Do this promptly, as the Missouri Department of Labor says you must notify your employer within 30 days to preserve your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Furthermore, the process can take a while, so reporting the injury quickly helps get workers compensation cases started as soon as possible.
After you report your injury, your employer will notify their workers’ compensation provider. This notification is a formal step to get your claim rolling. Meanwhile, it’s crucial for you to continue medical treatment while your claim proceeds. Your medical records can help support your claim, and failing to follow your prescribed treatment could undercut your case.
The next step involves the actual filing of your workers’ compensation claim. The claim includes details about the injury and your medical records.
If the insurance company approves the personal injury victims claim, you’ll start receiving workers compensation benefits. These benefits typically cover your medical expenses and part of your lost wages if you cannot work while you heal. However, don’t lose hope if the insurance carrier denies your claim. You have the right to appeal this decision. A Kansas City workplace injury lawyer can handle any appeal for you.
According to the Missouri Department of Labor, most employers in Missouri must provide workers’ compensation for their workers. This requirement applies to full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. Independent contractors and a few other groups of workers do not qualify for workers’ comp benefits, but always check with an attorney before assuming you do not qualify. Employers sometimes misclassify employees as contractors to avoid paying for workers’ compensation, depriving their workers of the benefits they need after an injury. A Kansas City workers’ compensation lawyer can review your case and determine whether you qualify for benefits from an insurance carrier.
If you’re dealing with a workers’ comp claim in Kansas City, MO, having a seasoned attorney by your side can make a big difference. First, a Kansas City work injury lawyer can help you understand the ins and outs of the workers’ compensation process. This means they’ll explain the steps in plain terms, ensuring you know what to expect at each stage.
Your lawyer will also take care of the heavy lifting when it comes to paperwork. They’ll ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time, which is critical to avoiding delays. If there’s any need for additional documentation or evidence to support your claim, your lawyer will handle that, too.
Negotiating with workers compensation insurance companies can be tricky, and this is where your lawyer shines. They’ll represent you in these discussions, striving to get you the best possible outcome. If your claim is denied, your lawyer can appeal the decision. They’ll gather additional evidence, prepare a solid case, and argue on your behalf to get the decision overturned.
Finally, having a Kansas City workplace injury attorney gives you peace of mind in your workers compensation claim. You can focus on your recovery, knowing an experienced professional is managing your claim. This support is invaluable, especially during a time when your main priority should be to recover your health.
The Kansas City workers’ comp lawyers at Holland Injury Law, LLC can be your champions and advocate in your fight for fair compensation. Call 816-575-6087 now or reach out online for a free case review. Workers compensation law can be complex, but we are here to help you.
LOOKING FOR A TRUSTED TEAM
TO REPRESENT YOUR CASE?
