Corydon Workers Compensation Attorneys

Facing legal complexities following a workplace injury can be challenging. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to support you. With unwavering dedication and specialized expertise, our team fights for injured workers' rights. We work meticulously to secure fair treatment and proper compensation, letting you concentrate on recovery.

Navigating the workers' compensation system in Iowa can be challenging, especially when dealing with sudden stoppages of payments, medical disputes, and understanding your rights regarding medical care. This comprehensive guide will help you understand your rights and the steps you should take to ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to.

Can Workers' Comp Stop Payments Without Giving Me Notice?

A common question from injured workers is whether the workers' comp insurance company can stop payments without notice. Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Workers' comp insurers in Iowa can stop paying weekly checks for any reason or no reason at all, much like you might miss a bill payment. However, Iowa law requires insurers to provide 30 days' notice, known as an Auxier notice, under certain conditions. For instance, if you have returned to work and the insurer believes they have paid all owed PPD (permanent partial disability) benefits, they must notify you via a letter.

In practice, insurers often stop or delay payments without notice. If this happens, contact the insurance adjuster to inquire about the missing check. Sometimes, it may be a simple mailing delay or an oversight. Keep all envelopes and checks to prove the mailing dates, as insurers might claim checks were sent earlier than they actually were. Late payments can incur a penalty of up to 50% of the amount owed, known as penalty benefits. If your payments are late or stopped, consider consulting an experienced Iowa workers' comp attorney.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits & Epidural Injections for Back Pain

Workers engaged in heavy lifting often suffer from back problems, sometimes requiring epidural injections. These injections, typically covered by workers' comp, involve inserting a needle into the epidural space of the spine to inject corticosteroids, reducing swelling and alleviating pain. Conditions treated include disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and spondylolysis.

However, complications such as bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and dural punctures can arise. If you face issues getting these injections covered, you can appeal to the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commissioner (IWCC).

Workers’ Compensation Disputes Involving Epidural Injections

Workers' comp generally covers medical expenses, disability benefits, and other related costs if the injury occurred during employment. However, disputes may arise, especially if the doctor chosen by the employer denies the severity of the injury. In such cases, workers can file for alternative medical treatment with the IWCC. If the condition becomes a permanent disability, it is classified as an industrial disability, influencing the duration and amount of PPD benefits based on the injury, impairment, restrictions, skills, education, and work experience.

Can You See Your Own Doctor After a Work Injury in Iowa?

Technically, you have the right to see your own doctor after a work injury, but significant restrictions apply. Typically, your employer and their insurance carrier will only pay for medical care approved by them, usually provided by their chosen physicians. Before seeking treatment from your doctor, consult your employer to avoid rejection of your health insurance claim, as workers' comp should cover it.

Receiving Medical Help after a Work Injury

Employers in Iowa have the right to choose your medical care. If dissatisfied, discuss it with your employer. Only under certain circumstances can you request alternative care, and if denied, you must appeal to the workers' compensation commissioner. If you believe your impairment rating is too low, you can see another doctor at the employer’s expense, but of their choosing.

What If I Am Not Satisfied With Their Doctor?

If you're unhappy with the medical care, you may need to file a petition for alternate medical care, allowing a judge to approve your choice of doctor, covered by workers' comp. This process can be challenging and usually requires a qualified workers' comp attorney.

What If I Don't Want to Have the Recommended Care?

You have the right to refuse recommended medical procedures, such as a hip replacement. However, refusing treatment can negatively impact your workers' comp claim, so discuss it with an experienced attorney before making a decision.

Getting Legal Assistance In Corydon

Navigating the complexities of Iowa workers' compensation laws can be daunting, especially during the recovery process from a workplace injury. Seeking guidance from a seasoned Corydon Workers' Comp attorney is invaluable in ensuring your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Legal professionals play a pivotal role in gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and advocating for your interests throughout the claims process. Don't risk missing out on the compensation you deserve – enlist the support of a qualified attorney to navigate the complexities with confidence.

The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 641-792-3595.