Missouri Work Injury Attorney
Did you know that if you get hurt on the job, the only way you can have your employer pay your medical bills, your lost wages and any other compensation is through the workers compensation laws?
Most people don't know that. Workers' Compensation is what is called an "exclusive remedy." This means that if you are hurt at work, your only option in almost every case is to file a Work Comp claim. Therefore, it is critical that you understand the rights you do have.
Workers' Compensation in Missouri
You have access to three basic rights under work comp:
- Your medical bills are paid — BUT — the insurance company gets to choose and direct treatment. You can also choose your own doctor - BUT - it will be at your own expense.
- If you have to miss time from work, you get a portion of your lost wages — BUT — it's only 2/3s of your pay and it doesn't kick in until you have missed at least three approved, consecutive days of work. The first three days are just a loss. If you are still working, Workers' Compensation does not have to pay you while you attend physical therapy.
- If you are permanently injured as a result of your injury, you are be entitled to a weekly or lump sum payment — BUT — the work comp insurance company gets to choose the doctor who decides whether your disability is a result of your injury or some other non work related reason and how serious (and therefore, how expansive) your injuries are.
The insurance company is only concerned with minimizing the cost of your claim. They do not care whether you have been seriously hurt. To them, you only represent a potential loss. The lower they can rate your injury, the less they pay.
We know how to fight the insurance companies. If you have been injured at work, contact the attorneys at Brown & Crouppen toll free at 888-842-7944 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online contact form.
