Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Glendale
If you are injured or develop an illness that is job related in Glendale, you may apply for workers’ compensation in accordance with Arizona’s workers’ compensation laws, codified in A.R.S. § 23-901 et seq. Workers’ compensation is intended to provide injured workers with compensation benefits and medical expenses, to help them get through the period of time required for their recovery.
Worker Eligibility
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that employers purchase. All employers in Arizona who routinely hire workers as part of their customary business practices are required to have workers’ compensation insurance. To be sure, workers’ compensation insurance is required regardless of whether the workers are full-time or part-time, or whether the workers are minors, family members or illegal immigrants. Workers who are not required to be insured for workers’ compensation include domestic servants, independent contractors, or temporary and irregular workers (i.e., workers who provide services that are not commonly used by an employer). Sole proprietors may elect whether to obtain workers’ compensation insurance for themselves or not.
No Fault Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system in Arizona, meaning that as a general rule, workers who suffer on-the-job or work-related injuries are eligible for workers’ compensation, regardless of whether the worker is partially or fully at fault for the injury or illness. Some exceptions are made to the no-fault rule; for example, a worker who purposely causes a self-inflicted workplace injury may not be eligible for workers’ compensation.
What Are My Rights When I Am Injured On The Job?
If you are injured on the job, you must report the injury to your employer. Upon notifying your employer, your employer is required to provide you with the following information:
Within 10 days of your reported injury, your employer must also report your injury to the workers’ compensation insurance provider and must notify the Industrial Commission of Arizona.
Additionally, as a general rule the employer can make the employee seek immediate medical attention from a doctor selected by the employer, but after the initial medical consultation, the worker is free to choose whichever doctor he or she prefers. There are a few limited exceptions to this rule, and an experienced Arizona workers’ compensation lawyer can assist you in determining whether your employment situation is exempt.
Glendale Workers Compensation Lawyers
Every year, numerous people incur injuries or develop illnesses because of workplace exposure. Workers’ compensation insurance coverage helps to compensate injured employees for medical bills, ongoing treatment, lost income, and other matters.
However, acquiring workers’ compensation may be a complicated process for those who have never gone through it before. That’s why it’s essential to seek the help of Glendale Workers Compensation Lawyers, who are knowledgeable about the procedures.
Here, we take a look at the injuries and ailments that qualify for workers’ compensation:
Workers’ Compensation Injuries
Roles that require doing the same movements repeatedly often result in repetitive stress injuries, which are also called repetitive motion injuries. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the most common type of repetitive strain injury, which impacts hands, wrists and forearms because of repetitive motion like typing. That is a common problem among people who work in offices. People who stock shelves are also potential victims of repetitive motion injuries in the form of chronic back pain, because of heavy lifting.
Occupational Ailments
An occupational ailment is when a medical condition is caused by working conditions or exposures in the place of work. For instance, a firefighter’s exposure to asbestos can result in a disease called mesothelioma. Additionally, a worker can suffer from hearing loss because of exposure to noise in the work environment. Other occupational illnesses include allergies, asthma, and tennis elbow.
Mental Stress Injuries
Injuries related to emotional or mental stress are now legally recognized under workers’ compensation. Work-related stress is one of the primary causes of injuries that can result in a variety of illnesses like heart disease and cancer. Since mental stress injuries are hard to prove, regulations about what qualifies as stress varies by jurisdiction. Nevertheless, stress is known to be the root cause of almost 2/3 of all hospital visits. For workers’ compensation to be granted, an employee needs to prove that the job stress has gotten to a disabling level. Stress-related injuries may be caused by one-time occurrences. For instance, a firefighter might experience a traumatic fire that causes them to request workers’ compensation benefits.
Is a Doctor Examination Necessary?
Whether you need to undergo an assessment by a doctor depends on the organization you work for. Typically, a thorough examination by a physician is required once the insurance provider of the employer deems it so. During the appointment, document everything that occurs. Try to take note of the names of the physicians that evaluate you, any diagnostic tests, and all other medical procedures. Keep in mind that the evaluation is being performed to prove your work-related injury claim. Some doctors may be sympathetic to injured workers, but some aren’t. It’s worthwhile if a competent lawyer is present during your doctor’s appointment. Some Glendale workers’ compensation lawyers might even assist you in searching for the right physician on the insurance list.
Workers’ compensation helps to provide for employees who are injured or become sick because of their jobs. The workers’ compensation benefits offer compensation for treatment expenses and possible income loss. It’s always best for workers to consult a workers’ compensation lawyer for help if their claim is denied. Contact Snow, Carpio & Weekley, PLC, today to speak to our experienced Glendale Workers Compensation Lawyers.
Work With Glendale Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
If you are injured while on the job, you will need compensation and medical expenses for the period of time that you are unable to work due to your injuries. An experienced Arizona workers’ compensation attorney at Snow, Carpio & Weekley, PLC can assist you with your workers’ compensation claim, as well as any possible disputes that may arise between you, your employer, or the workers’ compensation insurance provider. At Snow, Carpio & Weekley, PLC, we believe that you should never have to go uncompensated when you are injured while on the job. Please call us at 855-325-4781 to schedule a free initial consultation.
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Our unique approach to working with our clients
At Snow, Carpio and Weekley, PLC, we don’t identify you by your injury or your claim. We recognize you by name and by face. You have an important life with people who look up to you and depend on you. We treat you with that same respect. We will work with you on your Workers’ Compensation or Social Security Disability claims, helping you secure the benefits you deserve; affording you dignity today and hope for the future.