Killington Workers’ Compensation Attorney

For workers in many industries throughout Killington and the surrounding areas of Vermont, the chances of being involved in a workplace accident are disproportionately high. If a workplace accident does occur and you’re injured, you may have dozens of questions about your rights and legal options.

At the office of Larson & Gallivan Law, our Killington workers’ compensation attorneys can provide you with representation and guidance every step of the way. To learn more about how we can help, please call us directly today or send us a message at your convenience.

You Deserve to Be Compensated When Injured on the Job

When you’re injured on the job, you deserve to be compensated. State law mandates that employers carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. If you were injured during your work-related duties, you could file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.

Workers’ compensation benefits provide payment for r necessary and reasonable medical expenses, as well as a portion of your lost wages if your injuries preclude you from returning to work. You may also be eligible for permanent disability benefits or vocational rehabilitation benefits.

To receive workers’ compensation benefits, you do not need to prove fault. In exchange for no-fault benefits, employers are shielded from liability from negligence lawsuits.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury

To recover workers’ compensation benefits, you must follow a particular process. The following are steps to take after a workplace injury include:

Get medical care
Your employer can direct you to their doctor for the first visit, but after that, you have the right to see any doctor of your choosing.

Provide notice of the accident to your employer
You must provide your employer with notice of your accident and injuries immediately. If you wait too long to provide notice, your claim can be denied.

Get a written doctor’s note
If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you must seek a written doctor’s note.

Know the process and take action
After you provide notice to your employer, your employer has 72 hours to report the incident to the Department of Labor. From there, the workers’ compensation insurance provider has 21 days from the date of receiving notice to investigate your claim. Ultimately, however, it is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance company and department of labor receive notification if things are not proceeding as they should. Contact a lawyer immediately.

Note that sometimes even when you do everything you’re supposed to on your end, your claim may be denied, you may be retaliated against by your employer, or you may receive a settlement that’s less than you deserve. If any of these things happen, call a lawyer.