When you are injured at work, you have a right to file an injury claim under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act. Although it is not a legal requirement to have an attorney represent you throughout your claim, we think that all injured workers should have an experienced attorney on their side to help them. Here are some reasons why:
Your lawyer will make sure your claim is filed properly.
There are time restrictions on when you need to report your injury and when you need to file your claim. A lawyer will make sure you don’t lose your right to file a claim because of technicalities.
The workers’ compensation laws and rules are complicated.
The Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act was created by the Nebraska Legislature. Every year the legislature amends and adds new laws – some which might have a direct impact on your claim. Other times, the Nebraska Supreme Court issues ruling affecting your rights. Furthermore the Court has its own set of rules for handling injury claims. With all of this said an experienced work injury attorney can guide you through the process.
Your lawyer can fight back when your claim is denied or questioned by the insurance company.
Sometimes, insurance companies deny claims that are otherwise legitimate. If your claim is denied or your benefits are stopped, your attorney can help you appeal those decisions.
Lawyers represent you at all hearings, depositions, and other court appearances.
For many clients, their workers’ compensation claim is their first interaction with the court system and it can be very disconcerting. Having a lawyer help you figure out what the process will be like can help make sure everything goes smoothly.
You don’t have to pay an attorney up front.
Unlike other legal claims that can be expensive to file, workers’ compensation claims do not require payment until there is a settlement or successful procurement of benefits.
