When you’re injured in a work accident, the recovery process can be long. You need benefits through the Iowa Workers' Compensation Act for your injuries, but you might be worried about your rights. You might be unsure where to begin, how workers' compensation works, and what compensation you may be eligible for with your claim. If you’ve been injured at work, check out the three things you need to know about the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Act. Your attorney can help you understand this act and get the full workers' comp benefits you’re eligible for, including coverage of your associated medical costs and partial wage replacement.
Most Workers Are Covered Under the Iowa Workers' Compensation Act
If you’ve been injured on the job, your first concern might be about your eligibility. You might worry that you have no grounds for benefits based on your status as a worker. Fortunately, most workers are eligible for compensation after on-the-job injuries. Even if you’re a part-time worker, you should be eligible for compensation. Keep in mind, though, that a few groups, such as independent contractors, are currently not considered employees. If you’re not eligible under the Iowa Workers' Compensation Act, your workers' comp lawyer can discuss your options for benefits.
Workplace Injuries and Illnesses
When you’re hurt at work, you might be concerned about whether the injuries you’ve suffered are covered. That’s especially true for those suffering from diseases, such as lung diseases, caused by exposure to chemicals or repetitive stress injuries, such as tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, back strains and sprains, and shin splints. If your injury was related to your job, you should be eligible for compensation that covers your expenses. For example, if you suffered a brain injury, you should receive benefits that cover your medical expenses and a portion of your wages for your recovery. If the insurance company is demanding more evidence of your injury, though, you may need an Iowa workers' comp attorney for help.
You Can Appeal Your Denial
If you’ve already tried to get your benefits for an injury at work, you might have been disappointed to find that you were denied your benefits. Your employer or their insurance company may have refused to supply benefits on grounds that you believe to be unfair. For example, common reasons sited for benefit claim denials include alleged invalid employer-employee relationships, qualifying injuries, disputes regarding the cause of the injury, and failing to file within the workers' compensation time limit. You’re not out of luck just because you’ve been denied compensation. The Workers' Compensation Act of Iowa gives you the right to appeal denied claims. Talk to your work compensation lawyer about taking your claim to court. Your lawyer can help you analyze the denial reason, set a workers' compensation hearing date, and speak in front of the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner on your behalf.
Learn More with a Workers' Comp Lawyer in Iowa
If you’re worried about what happens after a work accident, you might need some guidance toward your future. You need medical attention and care, and you and your family need compensation, which can be tough if you’re not sure of your rights. There are a few things to know about the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Act that can be helpful when filing your claim. If you’ve been injured in a work accident, talk to an attorney at Pothitakis Law Firm, PC about your options under this act. If you have questions about the workers' comp act and how it affects your claim, talk to an Iowa work comp lawyer during a free consultation and learn more about your options.
