Oregon Workers’ Compensation laws were created to ensure that employees receive the benefits they are entitled to in case of an on-the-job injury. So why would you need a workers’ compensation lawyer if you are already protected by the law? Lots of reasons!
If your case falls into one of these categories, call a worker’s compensation lawyer. The Oregon Workers’ Compensation system can be complicated, but you don’t have to deal with it alone.
Dispute over Your Injury
If a significant time period has gone by since your injury, if your employer claims that your injury did not happen at work, or if a the workers’ compensation insurance company, like SAIF, claims you have preexisting conditions, you need to consider hiring a lawyer. They can determine if your employer’s claims are valid, and if you deserve more than they’re offering.
Delay, Denial or Underpayment of Your Benefits
Sometimes your benefits, like workers’ compensation disability pay, may be late, paid in the wrong amount, or not paid at all. Other times, you may be awarded a permanent partial disability amount in a Notice Of Closure that is just not fair. Your employer, insurance company, or SAIF may even try to completely deny you the benefits to which you are entitled. A lawyer can help you get these benefits that you are entitled to by law! Your work has paid for workers’ compensation. Now that you are injured, you should get the benefits that you are entitled to by law.
Unlawful Retaliation
If you are laid off and you think this may be because of your injury, a lawyer can help you get to the bottom of the situation. It is illegal for employers to fire you because of a workers’ compensation claim, and a lawyer can bring the case against your employer to court if need be.
All Workers’ are Covered without regard to Fault
People might think that they can only get workers’ compensation when they are severely injured, or if their job is undeniably dangerous (such as construction or working with heavy machinery). This is not true. Any worker with an injury requiring medical attention or resulting in any disability that occurred at work may file a claim. Workers’ compensation laws cover your injury even if it is your own fault, your employer’s fault, a coworkers’ fault or the fault of a third party. Whose fault it is just doesn’t matter!
If you have any further questions about your eligibility to make a claim or want to set up a consultation with one of our lawyers, contact Ransom, Gilbertson, Martin & Ratliff at 1-800-371-3664 or 503-226-3664.