New London Workers Compensation Attorneys

The legal issues following a workplace injury can be overwhelming. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to help. With steadfast dedication and expert skills, our team fights for injured workers' rights. We work meticulously to secure fair treatment and rightful compensation, letting you concentrate on getting better.

Comprehensive Guide to Workers' Compensation Claims in Iowa

Navigating the complexities of workers' compensation claims can be daunting, especially when faced with a denial. Understanding the common reasons for a denied claim, the intricacies of light duty status, and the specifics of different types of injuries can help you better manage your situation and ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to.

Common Reasons for a Denied Workers' Comp Claim in Iowa

It’s not uncommon for an injured employee to be denied workers’ compensation benefits after filing a claim. Sometimes, denials are made in error or because of inadequate evidence. In other cases, the employer or insurance company may try to deny benefits to avoid the expense, assuming the employee lacks the fortitude or resources to contest the decision. Here are some common reasons for a denied workers' comp claim:

Legitimate Denials

Some workers’ comp claims are legitimately denied. Employees who fabricate or exaggerate their conditions should not receive benefits. Additionally, employees who were intoxicated at the time of the accident may not be entitled to workers’ comp.

Overstepped the Time Limits

Not reporting your injury immediately can be problematic. You should notify your supervisor as soon as you're hurt or recognize a work-related illness. In Iowa, you have 90 days to file a workers' comp claim. Failure to do so can jeopardize your rights to benefits. Delayed reporting can lead the insurance company to argue that the condition isn't serious.

Medical Authorization Issues

Refusing to sign a medical authorization can lead to a claim denial. While your employer’s insurer is entitled to review your medical records for your work-related accident, you're not required to sign a release that grants the insurer access to your entire medical file. It's advisable to obtain your records yourself and provide them to the insurer to maintain privacy. However, insurers may be suspicious that you're withholding unfavorable information, so it’s best to consult with an attorney.

Failing to Abide By a Doctor’s Orders

Not following your doctor’s orders can result in a denial of benefits. Insurers may argue that non-compliance indicates your injury isn't severe. This can include missing appointments, posting photos of physical activities on social media, refusing medical exams, or being caught doing activities that your injury supposedly restricts. 

Appeals Process

If your claim is denied, there's an appeals process to obtain your benefits. Presenting additional evidence can bolster your case. Hiring a workers’ comp attorney can help you navigate this process effectively.

Understanding Light Duty Status in Iowa Workers' Compensation

Consulting a work injury lawyer in Iowa is a good way to learn about the Workers' Compensation process and your rights. Light duty status refers to performing duties that accommodate an injury or disability if you cannot perform your former duties, provided light duty is available.

Healing Period and Light Duty

After a work injury, you should be granted a "healing period" to recover while receiving pay and medical treatment. Once you're no longer incapacitated, you may return to work. If a lingering injury prevents you from performing your old job, your employer should offer you a modified job, known as "light duty." 

If this option isn't presented and you believe it should be, contact an experienced work injury attorney to ensure fair treatment and compensation.

Determining Light Duty Status

Your doctor determines if you should be on light duty. Restrictions should be documented and signed by the physician. If the light duty job pays less, the difference should be compensated through Workers' Comp benefits. 

Communicating Light Duty Status

If released to work with restrictions, notify your employer through various means (in person, telephone, writing, email) that you're ready to work within these restrictions. Failure to communicate can result in losing your job, workers' comp benefits, and unemployment benefits. If unable to perform the light duty job, immediately inform your supervisor and contact your doctor for further instructions.

Workers’ Compensation for Specific Injuries: Annular Tears and Rotator Cuff Injuries

Annular Tears

Annular tears are injuries to the intervertebral discs, often caused by trauma or repetitive work activities. Proving that the natural aging process didn't cause your injury is essential for eligibility.

Types of Annular Tears

- Concentric Tears: Caused by injury, appearing between the annulus fibrosus layers.
- Rim Lesions: Caused by injury or bone spurs, occurring in the outer layers.
- Radial Tears: Often due to aging, starting in the disc center and extending outward.

Compensation for Annular Tears

Workers' compensation benefits for annular tears include:
- Medical Benefits: Covering care and treatments, including transportation expenses.
- Disability Benefits: Providing up to 80% of weekly earnings. Maximum compensation varies based on disability type.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

A rotator cuff injury involves muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint, leading to pain, loss of mobility, and arm weakness. These injuries often develop over time due to repetitive overhead motions or heavy lifting.

Eligibility for Benefits

Rotator cuff injuries sustained during work-related activities are covered by workers' compensation. Benefits include medical expenses and disability payments for lost wages.

Surgery Coverage

Workers' comp covers necessary surgeries for rotator cuff injuries. However, experimental or elective procedures, like acupuncture, may not be covered if not recommended by a doctor.

Following Doctor's Orders

Adhering to your doctor's instructions is crucial. Returning to work before being medically cleared can jeopardize your benefits. If issues arise with your employer post-accident, consult a workers’ comp attorney.

Getting Legal Assistance In New London

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 New London 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.