Cedar Rapids Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Injured at Work? We Can Help You Understand Your Rights

At Pothitakis Law Firm, we’ve spent two decades helping hardworking people in and around Cedar Rapids, IA. As a respected and experienced workers’ compensation law firm, our mission is to help people recover the compensation they deserve in the face of accidental injury or unfair treatment from an employer, insurer, or even the state Workers’ Compensation commission.

We understand that the plight of “the little guy” often seems impossible, but it’s not. Our job is to level the playing field and lend an effective helping hand.

As an experienced lawyer, Niko Pothitakis wants you to know that we are here for you. We have a real love for Cedar Rapids, and we’re truly invested in the safety of its people.

If you ever need aid in defending your rights under the law — or even if you just need a little help understanding what those rights are — we hope you’ll give us a call. All of our services are open to the citizens of Linn County and all of Eastern Iowa. Wherever you may be, we’re happy to do whatever it takes to fight for the justice, fairness, and compensation you’re owed under the law.

Call (319) 318-0450 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with our workers' compensation attorney in Cedar Rapids.

When Should You Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a workers' compensation lawyer in the following situations:

• Complex or disputed claims: If your workers' compensation claim is complex or disputed, involving issues such as pre-existing conditions, denied benefits, or disagreements with the insurance company or employer, you should seek legal representation. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and navigate the legal process to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
• Denial of benefits: If your workers' compensation claim has been denied or if you are not receiving the full benefits you believe you are entitled to, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and advocate for your rights. They will review your case, gather additional evidence, and present a strong argument to challenge the denial and pursue the benefits you deserve.
• Employer retaliation or discrimination: If you are facing employer retaliation or discrimination due to filing a workers' compensation claim, it is crucial to consult with a lawyer. They can protect your rights, advise you on how to handle the situation, and take legal action if necessary to ensure you are treated fairly.
• Permanent disability or impairment: If you have suffered a permanent disability or impairment as a result of a workplace injury, a workers' compensation lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of assessing and obtaining appropriate compensation for your long-term disability. They will work to ensure you receive the maximum benefits available to you.
• Third-party liability: If your injury was caused by a third party, such as a contractor, subcontractor, or equipment manufacturer, you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond workers' compensation benefits. A lawyer can evaluate your case, determine if a third party is liable, and pursue a personal injury claim on your behalf.
• Complex legal procedures: The workers' compensation process involves various legal procedures, paperwork, and deadlines. If you are unfamiliar with these procedures or find them overwhelming, hiring a lawyer can provide peace of mind. They will handle all the legal aspects of your claim, ensuring everything is filed correctly and on time.

Consulting with a workers' compensation lawyer during any stage of the claims process can help protect your rights and improve your chances of obtaining fair and adequate compensation. They can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your case and guide you through the complexities of the workers' compensation system.

Cedar Rapids’ Top Employers

With so much to do, tourism obviously plays a part in making Cedar Rapids’ economy so formidable. There’s so much more, though — from arts and entertainment to medicine, manufacturing, food science, transportation, information technology (IT), and beyond. Notably, it’s also one of the world’s largest producers of processed corn.

Among Cedar Rapids’ biggest businesses and top employers are:

• Rockwell Collins
• Transamerica
• Quaker Oats
• General Mills
• St. Luke’s Hospital
• Hy-Vee
• Aegon
• Mercy Medical Center
• Kirkwood Community College
• Cedar Rapids Community School District
• Archer Daniels Midland
• Nordstrom
• Cargill
• Toyota Financial Services
• Newspaperarchive
• Local government (Linn County and The City of Cedar Rapids)

With that many big names in industry, the hardworking people of Cedar Rapids undoubtedly find themselves in need of legal representation or advice from time to time. When that happens, you can count on Pothitakis Law Firm P.C.

Get the Facts About Workers' Compensation

What is workers' compensation?

Workers' compensation is a form of insurance that provides wage replacement, medical benefits, and other assistance to employees injured during the course of their employment.

Who is eligible for workers' compensation in Iowa?

Any employee injured while performing job duties, regardless of fault, is typically eligible for workers' compensation in Iowa.

What types of injuries are covered under workers' compensation?

Workers' compensation covers injuries that occur while performing job-related duties. This includes physical injuries, occupational illnesses, and sometimes mental health issues caused by work.

How do I file a workers' compensation claim in Iowa?

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing. Your employer will then notify their workers' compensation insurance carrier and file a report with the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner.

How long do I have to report a workplace injury?

You should report the injury within 90 days of the date of the injury or when you become aware that your injury is work-related.

What benefits can I receive through workers' compensation?

Workers' compensation benefits may include medical treatment, temporary total disability (TTD) benefits, permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation, if necessary.

Will I get paid while I'm recovering from my injury?

If you're unable to work due to your injury, you may receive wage replacement benefits (which can replace up to 80% of your spendable weekly earnings) while you're recovering.

Can I choose my own doctor for treatment?

Generally, your employer has the right to choose the doctor you see for your work-related injury. However, you can seek a second opinion or alternative treatment if you disagree with the initial diagnosis or treatment plan.

What if my workers' compensation claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. You can file a petition with the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner for a hearing to resolve the dispute.

How long does it take to receive workers' compensation benefits?

After reporting your injury, it may take a few weeks for benefits to begin, depending on the circumstances of your claim and whether it is disputed by the employer or insurance carrier.

What if I have a pre-existing condition that is aggravated by my job?

Workers' compensation in Iowa covers aggravations of pre-existing conditions if the aggravation occurred as a result of work-related activities.

Can I receive compensation if I am permanently disabled?

Yes, if your injury results in a permanent disability, you may be entitled to permanent partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability (PTD) benefits, depending on the severity of your injury.

What if I can return to work but in a different role?

If you're able to return to work in a modified or light-duty capacity, you may still be eligible for partial disability benefits to make up for any wage loss.

How long can I receive workers' compensation benefits?

The duration of benefits depends on the severity of your injury. Temporary disability benefits last as long as you're unable to work, while permanent disability benefits can last for years or even a lifetime, depending on the degree of disability.

Can I be fired for filing a workers' compensation claim?

No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a workers' compensation claim.

Do I need a lawyer to handle my workers' compensation claim?

While not required, having an attorney can be helpful, especially if your claim is denied or you have a complex case involving permanent disability.

What happens if my injury was caused by a third party?

You may be able to file a separate lawsuit against the third party, in addition to receiving workers' compensation benefits, if your injury was caused by someone other than your employer or a co-worker.

How is my compensation calculated?

Compensation is typically based on a percentage of your average weekly wage before the injury, with adjustments for the severity of your disability.

What if I disagree with the compensation amount?

You can file a formal dispute with the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner if you believe the compensation amount is incorrect.

How long do I have to file a claim for workers' comp in Iowa?

You have two years from the date of injury, or from the date you knew or should have known the injury was work-related, to file a workers' compensation claim in Iowa.

Get Started Now with a Free Consultation

At Pothitakis Law Firm P.C., we know firsthand just how complex and confusing the workers’ compensation system can be. With Attorney Niko Pothitakis on your side, though, you don’t have to bear that burden alone. Our firm is fully prepared to handle even the most complicated and challenging workplace injury claims.

Call us today at (319) 318-0450 or send us a message online to learn how our Cedar Rapids workers' compensation attorney can help you after a workplace accident or injury.