Suffering an injury at work can have lasting consequences for you and your loved ones. It can cost you the primary source of your income during the weeks and months of your recovery. This process can be confusing, and it is natural to wonder if you need a lawyer after a Reno work injury.
In most cases, the support of legal counsel is crucial to getting a fair outcome. The insurance company will have their own resources, but a dedicated workers’ compensation lawyer could help you even the odds.
Signs You Might Need an Attorney
While every case is different, there are certain signs that suggest you may benefit from hiring a lawyer after a Reno work injury.
There Are Delays in Getting a Response to your Claim
One of the key aspects of the workers’ compensation system is that it provides immediate medical care to injured employees without the need to first determine who was at fault. However, lengthy delays are often a sign that the insurance company is not treating your claim seriously. If there are delays, your attorney could get your case moving forward again.
The Insurance Company Claims Your Injury Was Not Work Related
Workers’ compensation benefits are only available for injuries or illnesses that occur on the job. If there is evidence that your condition resulted from some other source, you are not entitled to compensation. Unfortunately, some insurance companies will dispute claims using this excuse when there is no doubt your injury happened at work.
Having an attorney could be helpful in these situations. What’s more, they could help with more complex issues like aggravated pre-existing conditions or occupational diseases that take years to diagnose.
Your Injuries Prevent You From Working Again
The worst kind of workplace injuries result in permanent disabilities. If you believe your ability to earn a living is in jeopardy, the outcome of your case is crucial. The stakes are too high in that scenario to act as your own attorney. Instead of attempting to navigate the system on your own, your lawyer could provide their experience to help you get the most favorable outcome possible.
When Is a Lawyer Not Necessary?
There might be times when you don’t need help with your work injury claim. Situations involving minor wounds might not require the help of legal counsel, especially if you have already healed.
With these small cases, insurance companies are less likely to put up roadblocks and attempt to prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve. However, your case might also be more complicated than you realize.
Before you attempt to handle a Reno work injury claim on your own, you could benefit from relying on the guidance of legal counsel. An attorney could review your case and determine the strength of your claim. If your potential recovery is larger than you realized or the chances of a dispute are greater, your lawyer could help you get the best available outcome.
Talk an Attorney in Reno About Your Work Injury
If you still have questions about needing a lawyer after a Reno work injury, now is the time to ask. The sooner you speak to legal counsel, the more likely you are to successfully recover the benefits you need. Contact the lawyers of Shook & Stone today to get started.
