Accidents at work have the power to change your life forever and affect not just you, but also your family. Thankfully, you are likely covered by your employer's Workers' Compensation insurance coverage, giving you the right to financial support and medical attention for your work-related injuries in Connecticut.

The majority of employers are required by law to carry workers' compensation insurance. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that every year, around 3 million employees suffer injuries at work, costing employers close to $62 billion in lost productivity.

Every year, millions of American workers file workers' compensation claims for injuries suffered on the job, so it is beneficial to understand how the program works. If you are unclear about your specific situation, you should consult with a legal professional.

Injured workers in Connecticut have received compensation thanks to Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law. Our CT workers' comp lawyers can help give you clarification, advice and legal help in the event you are injured on the job.

Continue reading to learn more about the workers' compensation process in detail.

The Workers' Compensation Process

Any workplace accident must be immediately reported to management at your workplace, and the employer must start a report and look into the events leading up to the accident. Even if you think the injury is minor, it's recommended that you get medical care. Some issues might not manifest immediately, and if you don't get checked out by a doctor, you could lose out on benefits.

From here, you or your employer will submit a Workers' Compensation claim to the insurance company after the accident. The claim is not a lawsuit against your company, but rather a request for benefits to which you are legally entitled. The insurance company may look into the specifics of your accident and will also evaluate your medical records when deciding whether to accept or reject your claim. You should cooperate with the investigation and perhaps provide the state Bureau of Workers' Compensation with supporting evidence.

Cases involving workers' compensation don't always settle. The claim is usually closed if the injuries are minor, there are no additional medical expenses, and the employee is able to resume working. However, the insurance company will make a settlement offer if the injuries lead to long-term or permanent disability based on calculations that take into account anticipated future medical costs and lost wages, in addition to a specified sum based on your injury itself.

Worker's compensation settlements can be paid in one of two ways: as a one-time lump sum or on a structured scale, in which case you'll get regular payments over a specified length of time. The insurance company will consider your medical condition, wages, and any applicable state laws when deciding on your final compensation. To establish the amount of your settlement, they will evaluate your level of disability as determined by a medical professional.

However, as with any insurance company, they may attempt to offer less than you will need or deny your claim altogether. This is why, in situations like this, you should consult with an experienced workers' comp lawyer to help you get the full benefits you deserve.

Workers' Compensation Benefits

Benefits in a workers' compensation case, could could consist of:

• Permanent total disability: The extent of the injury is so severe that there is no possibility of future employment.
• Permanent partial disability: For employees who are unable to perform some, but not all job tasks due to a partial long-term disability.
• Temporary total disability: Injuries hinder workers from returning to work at first, but full recovery is anticipated.
• Temporary total disability: Injuries hinder workers from returning to work at first, but full recovery is anticipated.
• Medical benefits: The expense of present and future medical care associated with the accident is covered by workers' compensation.
• Death and burial benefits: Dependents of the deceased may be eligible for compensation if the wounded person passes away within four years of the accident.

The state-defined rate for a particular loss will be used as the basis for a portion of the settlement offer. For instance, the payment rate for the loss of a limb would probably be higher than for a broken leg or knee injury. Every state uses a different scale.

When To Accept a Settlement Offer

Do not accept the insurance carrier's settlement offer if you feel it is insufficient, especially before you consult legal counsel. Once you agree to a settlement offer, you waive your right to further compensation in the event that you incur future medical costs or expenses as a result of the injury. Acceptance is irrevocable.

Work with a knowledgeable workers' compensation attorney from the start of your claim to make sure you are receiving the full reimbursement for your injuries. Based on your injuries, incapacity, potential medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial aid, an experienced attorney will determine what you are entitled to.

For Assistance With Your CT Workers' Compensation Claim, Contact Us

In workers' compensation disputes in Connecticut and the surrounding states, we are committed to advocating for our clients. In order to put your injuries behind you and move on with your life, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, can help you get the compensation you need.

If you've been injured at work or had a claim denied, contact us right away to schedule a free consultation.