Virginia workers who are injured or become ill on the job have rights under the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act. Under the law, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance must pay for medical treatment and a portion of your wages while you are recovering. While these protections are clear, obtaining benefits can be challenging, especially if your employer and insurance company are dragging their feet in responding to your claim or presenting a lowball settlement amount far less than you deserve.
Chesapeake Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Our Chesapeake VA workers’ compensation lawyers at Rutter Mills have the experience and the skill to go up against the big insurance companies.
No matter it is your first time filing or you have already been denied, we are here to get you the support you need. Our firm has over 65 years of experience handling cases like yours, so we know how to get your payment from tight-fisted insurance companies. We also know that the only case that matters is yours, so we will work tirelessly for you and ensure you get what you are owed.
Chesapeake Workers' Comp Facts
Generally, Virginia businesses with two or more workers are required to carry workers’ compensation coverage. This includes companies that employ seasonal, part-time, and temporary employees, as well as trainees, minors, and immigrants.
Although some exceptions exist, injured employees can generally receive benefits regardless of who was at fault for their accident or illness.
You will however need to prove your case in a VWC hearing. Although you are not required to have an attorney for your hearing, your employer is. Going into a VWC hearing unrepresented puts you at a great disadvantage and could jeopardize your chances of getting compensation.
Virginia law gives employees 30 days to report an injury or illness to their supervisor. Beyond that deadline, claims are more likely to be denied.
Always report your injuries as soon as possible. Even though there is a deadline, insurance and opposing lawyers could use your delay against you, claiming your injuries were not severe enough.
If your claim is denied or you do not receive full and fair compensation as allowed under the law, you have the right to appeal. Having a lawyer with you in the appeal process is critical. Each appeal goes to a higher court up to the Virginia Supreme Court. Rutter Mills’ Chesapeake Workers’ Compensation attorneys have extensive experience in every level of Virginian court and are never intimidated by insurance if they try to appeal your case.
Common Workers’ Compensation Claims in Chesapeake, VA
According to data from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, these are the most common workers’ compensation claims across the U.S.
- Strains
- Contusions
- Lacerations
- Sprains
- Punctures
- Burns and electrocutions
- Foreign objects entering the body
- Broken bones
- Crushing injuries
- Concussions
After an accident at work, seeking prompt medical attention is important. Even if you initially don’t have symptoms, concussions, sprains, strains, and some internal injuries can worsen over time. Save all documentation related to your medical care and share it with your lawyer.
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
As noted, it’s not uncommon for employers and insurance companies to deny claims. They could allege that your actions were reckless, your injury did not happen at work, or you were impaired by drugs or alcohol at the time of your accident.
We will build your case for fair benefits by carefully reviewing the facts to determine the best course of action. In addition, we obtain medical records and other evidence to support your claim. We prepare and submit the paperwork and documentation on a timely basis and proactively avoid obstacles that may impact your outcome. If your claim is denied, our team is fully prepared to take the next steps to appeal your case or pursue litigation.
Contact Rutter Mills for a Free Consultation
We are proud to advocate for Chesapeake workers. We understand the urgency you have to get this process successfully resolved. If you’re hurt, your priority should be on healing, not filing paperwork. Our Chesapeake workers’ comp lawyers will negotiate aggressively with negligent parties and the insurance companies so you don’t have to.
To find out how we can help, call or connect online to schedule a free consultation with a workers’ compensation attorney.
Years Helping Injured Workers
Convenient Locations Serving Hampton Roads
Team Members Ready to Help
Workers Compensation
If you’ve been injured on the job, workers’ compensation insurance may entitle you to critical assistance like medical treatment, lost wages, and more. But insurance companies will put up an aggressive fight to resist paying you the compensation you need and deserve. Rutter Mills can help get you the money you deserve.
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