When a worker is injured in a workplace accident or because of a disability brought about by the job environment, the clock starts to run. In most cases, injured workers have 30 days to notify their employer of the intent to file a Missouri workers’ compensation claim. The employer then has the right to assign a certified workers’ compensation doctor to the injured worker in order to evaluate and treat the injury or disability. The doctor will diagnose the condition and issue a formal declaration that the worker can return to work full time or return to light duty at a reduction of one third of the regular pay rate.
Workers suffering an injury to a foot, ankle or knee face a particularly difficult time receiving the proper diagnosis and treatment. Injuries are often restricted to muscle and ligament damage, which X-rays and even CAT scans can’t always detect. Unless it is diagnosed correctly, returning to work too soon, or taking on job tasks that are beyond the capacity of the injury, can significantly prolong the recovery period or result in permanent damage.
Don’t Be Fooled By The Insurance Adjusters
Don’t be fooled. The workers’ comp insurance company adjuster may treat you nicely, for now, but is not on your side. At Hall Ansley, we fight to make sure you are diagnosed correctly and receive the full extent of care and benefits you are entitled to under the law.
Our firm employs two registered nurses to ensure that our clients understand the medical issues involved in a workplace injury and Missouri workers’ compensation claim. We aggressively fight to make sure you get the medical treatment you need, both now and in the future.
We’re On Your Side
Whether you are filing an initial claim or have received a letter of denial, we can help you with a full range of workers’ compensation services. Our lawyers offer advice and representation for injured workers throughout Central and Southwestern Missouri, so call us at 417-890-8700 or contact us by email for a free consultation with one of our workers’ compensation lawyers. You can also browse our workers’ compensation case results page to read about benefits that we have won for past clients.