Knowledgeable Representation For Workplace Injuries And Workers’ Compensation Disputes
A workplace injury may prevent you from doing your job, but it should not prevent you from supporting your family. Our personal injury and workers’ compensation lawyers at Carter Law Offices, P.C., in Des Moines, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska, are ready to help you.
If you have suffered an injury in the workplace and are facing physical challenges that prevent you from working, our workers’ comp attorneys can help you fully understand your rights and file a claim for workers’ compensation.
Common Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can happen to anyone, regardless of their job duties or their industry. Although the workplace environment should be safe and free from hazards, accidents are still quite common. When a worker slips and falls due to a foreign substance on the floor and lands in a harmful way, it can cause head and neck injuries that potentially lead to long-term disability or even death. A fall at work may damage the spine, resulting in sprains, fractures or other back-related injuries.
While slip-and-falls are a common cause of injury in the workplace, there are other common accidents too. Workers can injure their backs and other parts of their body if they get hit by falling or swinging objects. Performing the same movements over time can also take a toll on the back and limbs, causing repetitive stress injuries. Our workers’ compensation attorneys can help you and your family get the benefits you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Compensation Benefits
If you or someone you love has been injured in a workplace accident, we know and understand that you probably have a lot of questions about what to do next. Here, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys answer some of the most frequently asked questions. For answers to questions about your specific case, we offer a free, initial consultation appointment.
What specific steps should a worker take immediately after being injured at work?
If you get hurt on the job, acting quickly is crucial for your health and any workers’ compensation claim you may file. Here are some important steps:
- Seek medical attention to address your injuries. Your health comes first.
- Report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. It’s important to give a clear account of what happened while the details are fresh.
- Document everything, including the injury itself, how it occurred, and record any communication with your employer.
- Keep records of medical reports and expenses related to your injury.
Lastly, consider consulting with an attorney who understands workers’ compensation laws in Iowa and Nebraska. A lawyer can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.
Are there time limits or deadlines for filing a workers’ compensation claim in Nebraska and Iowa?
Yes, both Nebraska and Iowa have specific deadlines for filing a workers’ compensation claim. In Nebraska, you should notify your employer as soon as possible after your injury, and you have up to two years to file a claim. In Iowa, you have 90 days to report the injury to your employer to remain eligible for benefits, and up to two years to formally file a claim. It’s important to act within these time frames to ensure you don’t lose your right to compensation. An attorney can help you understand these deadlines and make sure your claim is filed on time.
What are the common challenges or disputes that arise in workers’ compensation cases?
Workers’ compensation cases can face several challenges. One of the most common issues is disputes over the severity of the injury and the level of benefits you are entitled to. Sometimes there’s disagreement about whether the injury is work-related or if pre-existing conditions played a role. Additionally, there may be challenges regarding the return to work, including disputes about what constitutes suitable employment given your injury. Navigating these disputes can be complex, and having a lawyer by your side can be essential. An attorney can advocate for your rights and work toward a fair resolution in your workers’ compensation case.
Fighting For Your Rights To Workers’ Compensation Resources
We know how important your workers’ compensation benefits are for your physical and financial health. Getting these resources not only provides continued security for your family but gives you the opportunity you need to recover your health.
We work with individuals from a wide range of professions, including construction workers, office workers, nurses and health care professionals, factory workers and farmers. Rely on our lawyers to help you when you have suffered a workplace injury, such as:
- Back injury
- Head and neck injury
- Joint injury
- Injury suffered due to safety issues or equipment failure
- Toxic exposure
- Environmental issues such as mold
- Fibromyalgia
- Amputation
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Long-term degenerative injury
While many injuries can be directly attributed to an obvious trauma, many others occur slowly over time. You may not realize you’ve even been injured on the job until long after the event. In all cases, it is important to report your injury as soon as possible and consult with a lawyer to understand your options before you lose your right to compensation.
Consult A Workers’ Compensation Attorney For Free
Our firm offers a free case evaluation and consultation. To schedule your free appointment, call our office at 515-644-4871 or 402-979-8675 or you can also reach us online. We can discuss your injury as well as your options for fully pursuing your workers’ compensation claim. Our mission is to ensure that our clients have the resources they need to fully recover and return to work.