Many people think there’s no need to hire an attorney if they are receiving benefits and are getting their medical bills paid by the workers’ compensation insurance company. Attorneys can help with your work comp claim even if the insurer is paying benefits. It is a good idea to have an attorney on board even when the insurance company is paying because it is important to have a person you can consult with for questions or concerns. Workers’ compensation attorneys in Minnesota are only paid on a contingency basis, so you can always talk to an attorney and ask a question knowing you won’t be billed for it. The ability to talk to a trained professional who knows the ins and outs of workers’ compensation law in St. Paul is essential. The insurance company adjusters consult with their attorneys regularly, so why wouldn’t you?
The other benefit of hiring an attorney even if you’re being paid is to have a safety net if the insurance company denies a benefit in the future. Workers’ compensation insurance companies are not required to pay all benefits forever, and can deny ongoing benefits at any time. It’s a good idea to hire an attorney who is familiar with the facts of your case before this happens, not after it is too late.
The work comp insurance company can also take a recorded statement while they are paying benefits. Often times insurance companies will use these statements to deny ongoing benefits, or trick you into saying something to give them a basis to deny benefits. You should contact Attorney Josh Borken immediately if you get asked to give a recorded statement.
Similarly, insurance companies can schedule you for an independent medical examination with a doctor of their choosing. The insurance companies pay these doctors directly to write a report and examine you. Often times these examinations are used to discontinue your ongoing benefits. There are certain rules insurance companies must follow for these examinations, and they frequently break these rules. If you are scheduled for an independent medical examination (or IME), contact Attorney Josh Borken immediately.
Finally, even if you are receiving benefits, you may still want to settle your case and be paid a lump sum of money to be done with your workers’ compensation case and move on with your life. Attorney Joshua Borken can help settle your case when it’s in your best interest to settle. Attorney Borken can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of settlement, and can negotiate the right settlement for you.
There are many good reasons to hire an attorney while you are receiving benefits from the work comp insurance company. If you are wondering if you need to hire an attorney, it is always free to ask Attorney Joshua Borken.