Workers' Compensation in Missouri
Missouri Workers' Compensation Attorney
In Missouri, the Workers' Compensation law, Chapter 287, applies to all employers that have five or more employees. The construction industry, where employers erect, demolish, alter or repair improvements, is subject to the law if they employ one or more employees. Missouri does exempt a very small and very specific group of employees, which includes farm laborers, domestic servants, certain real estate agents, direct sellers and some commercial motor carrier owner/operators.
In 2011, over 108,000 reports of first injuries with the Division of Workers Compensation. The industries where injuries occurs most often are healthcare, manufacturing, and retail trade.
In 2011, the Division of Workers' Compensation received 13,577 claims for compensation filed against employers. As of December 31, 2011, just over 26,000 claims for compensation were pending before the division. Unfortunately, it took an average of 42 months from the date the claim was filed to reach resolution. For settlements to occur, the average time was 21 months.
Common delay tactics of employers include the employer denying a work-related accident occurred, refusing certain necessary medical treatment and disagreeing regarding the degree of permanent disability as a result of the injury. Many times, insurance is the reason benefits are denied or delayed. Employers do not want an increase in their premiums and insurance claims adjusters are motivated to save the insurance company money. At Hall, Ansley, Rodgers & Sweeney, P.C., Attorney Michael Mergen has been representing injured workers for twenty years. He is familiar with the denial and delay tactics and will assist the injured worker in getting the justice that is deserved.
If you are injured in a work-related accident, contact Attorney Michael Mergen to discuss your claim.
