Marengo Workers Compensation Attorneys

Legal challenges after a workplace injury can be intimidating. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to support you. With steadfast dedication and expert knowledge, our team fights for the rights of injured workers. We work diligently to secure fair treatment and rightful compensation, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Navigating the complexities of Iowa Workers' Compensation can be daunting, especially when dealing with the concept of light duty status. Consulting a work injury lawyer in Iowa is highly recommended to fully understand the Workers' Compensation process and your rights under these laws as an injured worker.

What is Light Duty Status?

Light duty status refers to the assignment of modified or different job responsibilities that accommodate an injury or disability sustained at work if you are unable to perform your former duties. This alternative role should be provided if such a position exists within the company. After a workplace injury, Workers' Compensation law mandates a “healing period” where you can recover while still receiving pay and medical treatment. Once you are no longer completely incapacitated, you might be able to return to work, but a lingering injury could prevent you from performing your previous job. In such cases, your employer should offer a light duty job that fits within your physical limitations.

If your employer fails to provide this option, it is crucial to contact an experienced work injury attorney in Iowa. The attorney will ensure that your employer treats you fairly and that you receive the appropriate compensation if treated unfairly.

Should You Be on Light Duty Status?

Whether you should be on light duty is a decision that must be made by your doctor. Employers may resist accommodating light duty requests, but any work restrictions should be documented and signed by your physician. If the light duty job pays less than your original job, the difference should be compensated through your Workers' Compensation benefits.

Steps to Take If Assigned Light Duty

If the company doctor releases you to return to work with restrictions, it is imperative to communicate this to your employer frequently and through various means (in person, telephone, writing, email). Inform them that you are ready, willing, and able to work within these restrictions. Failure to do so could result in losing your job, not receiving weekly Workers' Compensation benefits, and being denied unemployment benefits.

If you return to work but find yourself unable to perform your light duty job, immediately notify your supervisor and contact your doctor for a follow-up appointment.

Calculating Your Iowa Workers' Compensation Benefits

The value of your Workers' Compensation case in Iowa is influenced by several factors, including the type of injury, whether you qualify for the Second Injury Fund, and if you have permanent restrictions.

Types of Injuries

Injuries are classified into two main categories:

1. Scheduled Member Injuries: These include injuries to the arm, hand, fingers, leg, foot, toes, ears, or eyes. Compensation for these injuries is based on a percentage of 250 weeks, depending on the impairment rating of the affected body part.

2. Unscheduled Member Injuries: These include injuries to the back, neck, brain, shoulder, nervous system, tinnitus, and skin. Compensation for these injuries is calculated based on a percentage of 500 weeks, considering various factors such as the ability to work, permanent restrictions, education, age, surgery performed, and the permanent impairment rating assigned.

For instance, a shoulder injury resulting in a 10% impairment rating might equate to a 6% whole body rating, typically entitling the worker to a minimum of 30 weeks of benefits. However, depending on other factors, this amount could be significantly higher.

Second Injury Fund

If a worker has previously injured another scheduled member, they may be eligible for additional benefits under the Iowa Second Injury Fund Act, which compensates as if the injury were to the body as a whole.

Can You Be Fired for Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim in Iowa?

In Iowa, most employees are considered at-will employees, meaning they can be terminated for any reason that is not illegal. Although filing for Workers' Compensation is a protected action under Iowa law, some employers may still retaliate against employees. Retaliation can take many forms, such as poor performance reviews, negative actions, or even termination. These actions are illegal, and if you believe you were fired for filing a Workers' Compensation claim, you might have a wrongful discharge claim.

Workers' Rights and Employer Retaliation

Workers' Compensation is designed to provide medical and disability benefits to employees injured or harmed on the job. While employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for filing a claim, it is not uncommon for employers to mask the true reason for termination. If you face retaliation, it is crucial to contact an attorney promptly, as the time limits for filing a complaint can be short.

Getting Legal Assistance In Marengo

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 Marengo 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.