If you have been injured on the job in Tucson, you have a right to workers’ compensation benefits. Certain requirements must be met, however, and workers compensation claims are frequently denied. The best way to get the benefits you deserve is to consult with a Tucson workers’ compensation attorney.
At Disability Attorneys of Arizona, our practice is dedicated to helping individuals obtain workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability benefits. Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of the rules governing workers’ comp claims and will guide you through the process.
We offer free consultations, cost-effective service, and trustworthy advice. Contact our Tucson workers compensation lawyer today to get started.
How Do I Obtain Workers’ Compensation Benefits In Tucson?
Under Arizona workers compensation laws, all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This is a no-fault system, meaning that injured workers are eligible for these workers compensation benefits regardless of who was at fault for the injury, as long as the injury occurred in the course of his or her employment. In addition, employers are protected against lawsuits by employees who have been injured on the job.
If a workplace injury is the result of gross negligence, the intentional misconduct of the employer or a coworker (e.g. safety violations, assault), or third-party negligence (e.g. a sub-contractor at a construction site), however, it is possible to pursue a personal injury claim.
To obtain benefits, you must submit a workers compensation claim with the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA), the state agency that oversees the program. You have 1 year to file your workers compensation claim, but you should do so as soon as possible. The claims process can be complicated and time-consuming, and these benefits are not guaranteed.
What type of workers’ compensation benefits are available in Tucson?
The Arizona workers’ compensation program offers a variety of benefits, including:
- Temporary benefits – Injured workers are entitled to up to two-thirds of their wages during the time they miss work.
- Medical benefits – All medical expenses are covered, such as medical appointments, surgical procedures, rehabilitative care, prescriptions, and assistive devices (e.g. crutches, orthotic devices).
- Specific loss benefits – These benefits cover workers who have lost a limb or organ (e.g. arm, leg, hand, foot, finger, toe, eye, or ear), or have permanent disfigurement or scarring to the head or neck area.
- Death benefits – Surviving family members of a worker who suffered a fatal workplace injury are provided with a death benefit.
Although injured workers are entitled to these crucial benefits, claims are frequently denied by insurance carriers and employers. An insurer may rule that there is insufficient medical evidence, while an employer may contest a claim by arguing the injury was not work-related or resulted from a pre-existing condition.
Whether you need assistance submitting a worker’s compensation claim, or your claim has already been denied, Disability Attorneys of Arizona can help. Rest assured, we will fight for the benefits you need and deserve with your workers comp case.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury
If you have been injured on the job, seek immediate medical treatment, inform your doctor that your injury or illness occurred in the workplace, and notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Your employer must report the injury to the ICA within 10 days of receiving notice.
Also, keep records of any medical treatment you receive. This information will be important evidence in support of your claim. At the same time, you will likely be required to undergo a consultative exam (CE) with a doctor chosen by your employer. The outcome of this exam will be an important factor in your benefit claim. If the findings of the CE do not concur with the medical record, your claim may be denied.
Why Choose Us?
At Disability Attorneys of Arizona, we have a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of injured workers and disabled individuals. When you become our client, we will assist you with all aspects of your workers’ comp claim, from submitting your initial application to filing an appeal if your claim is denied. Our Tucson workers compensation lawyers will also determine whether filing for disability benefits is an option, and, if so, help you navigate the process.
Because we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges facing you, we will not charge any attorneys’ fees until we win benefits for you. Above all, we will put your best interests first and fight tirelessly for the workers compensation benefits you need and deserve.
Contact Our Experienced Tucson Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
If you or a loved one has sustained a work-related injury or illness, you need the compassionate, efficient representation we provide. We have a proven history of achieving positive outcomes in workers’ comp claims and will stand by you every step of the way. to learn how we can help you.