What Are My Rights Under The Workers’ Compensation Law?
Workers’ compensation is often described as an agreement between employers and employees in which injured workers forfeit the right to sue an employer in court in exchange for the employer’s assurance to provide timely reimbursement and compensation following work-related injuries. Employers accept responsibility for these injuries and illnesses even if they are not at fault, but they do not have to worry about being tied up in court or potential liability for large verdicts.
Unfortunately, employers focused on their bottom line do not always adhere to the law. Companies’ insurance providers have attorneys on staff who are well-versed in workers’ compensation law and who may attempt to bend those laws in their favor. Injured workers must have equally knowledgeable and experienced legal representation in order to protect their rights and recover the full amount of benefits they are owed.
Liberty Lawyer For Those Injured At Work
At the law office of Kelly Law Office, P.C., in Liberty, Missouri, we have more than 40 years of cumulative experience representing injured Missouri and Kansas residents in workers’ compensation cases. We can advise you of your rights and assist you in an appeal if your claim has been denied or your benefits have been reduced.
We are licensed to practice law in both Missouri and Kansas and can help you maximize the benefits you are entitled to. In general, for both Missouri and Kansas cases, a claim should be filed as soon as possible to preserve your claim. In some instances, you may be eligible to receive benefits in both states.
We will protect your rights in all areas of workers’ compensation law, including:
- Medical treatment — The employer has an obligation to provide medical treatment and has a right to choose your doctor. If your employer does not tell you which doctor to see, you should ask.
- Temporary disability benefits — If your treating doctor certifies that you can’t work, you are likely entitled to “temporary total disability benefits.” The amount is based on a percentage of your gross average weekly wage.
- Permanent partial disability — In some cases, you may quality for money to compensate for a permanent partial disability. The amount you receive is determined by a specific formula.
- Permanent total disability — If you are no longer able to do any job at all, you may be able to receive permanent total disability benefits. We can explain the requirements to qualify for this type of award.
Meet With Our Experienced Lawyers
Schedule a free consultation and one of our experienced attorneys will personally review your case. At Kelly Law Office, P.C., we can answer your questions and provide a straightforward assessment of the likely outcome. If your case would be better handled by a Social Security Disability lawyer, we will refer you to highly qualified attorneys who can help.
Call us at 816-760-2000 or email us to schedule an appointment. We represent individuals throughout metro Kansas City, as well as in Kansas.