FAQs

Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. This coverage typically includes medical expenses, wage replacement, and rehabilitation services for affected workers.

While not always necessary, hiring a lawyer for your workers' compensation claim can be beneficial. Legal representation can help you navigate the complex process, ensure you receive full benefits, and protect your rights against insurance companies that may attempt to minimize payouts.

Workers' compensation generally covers a wide range of job-related injuries and illnesses. This includes accidents such as slips and falls, repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, back and neck injuries, exposure to harmful substances, injuries from equipment or machinery, and occupational illnesses such as lung disease or hearing loss.

In Massachusetts, you have a four-year window to file a workers' compensation claim. It's crucial to adhere to this deadline, as failing to do so may result in the loss of your eligibility for benefits.

Workers' compensation benefits may encompass several areas: medical care related to your work injury or illness, disability payments if you're unable to return to work, vocational rehabilitation or job retraining services, and death benefits for surviving family members in case of a fatal work-related incident.

If your workers' compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. An attorney can assist you by reviewing the denial, collecting necessary medical evidence, and representing your interests during appeal hearings to pursue the benefits you're entitled to receive.

It is against the law for an employer to terminate, demote, or retaliate against an employee for filing a legitimate workers' compensation claim. If you experience such actions, you may have grounds for a separate legal case against your employer.

In most instances, workers' compensation laws prevent employees from suing their employers for work-related injuries. However, if a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer or contractor, is responsible for your injury, you may have the option to file a separate personal injury lawsuit against that party.

Workers' compensation attorneys are typically compensated by the insurer if they prevail in court. Alternatively, they may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay upfront costs. The lawyer only receives payment if they win your case, with fees usually determined by state law or court approval.

The duration of a workers' compensation case varies depending on factors such as injury severity, claim processing time, and whether the insurance company contests your benefits. Some cases may resolve within weeks, while others could extend for months or longer if appeals are involved.