Kansas City Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Protecting the Rights of Injured Workers
From intense jobs like construction work to straightforward office tasks, there are countless hazards that workers can run into every day. Because of these hazards, almost every employer throughout Kansas and Missouri is legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to account for any on-the-job injuries.
You need workers’ compensation attorneys in Kansas City who will seek the benefits and justice you deserve after suffering an accident. We’ll help you with your claim and fight hard for you to receive the compensation you are owed.
Contact DM Injury Law today to schedule a free consultation. We are a contingency-fee-based law firm, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Call (816) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
Am I Entitled to Workers’ Compensation?
When you’ve been injured in the workplace, you are eligible to file a claim for workers’ compensation, regardless of whether your employer was “at fault” for your accident. While not every injury is covered — like those that are self-inflicted, for example — virtually any bodily harm sustained during your official working hours could make you eligible for coverage.
In Kansas, you can also file a claim for repetitive injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, provided that your job directly caused it.
Here are some of the reasons an employer may deny coverage:
- You injured yourself on purpose.
- Your injury happened when you were away from the premises.
- You violated workplace safety rules and procedures.
- You were fighting at the time of the accident.
- You were engaged in horseplay at the time.
It’s beneficial to speak to a workers’ comp lawyer in Kansas City for help with your case. Our team will cover all the bases to ensure that your claim is as strong as possible.
Common Workplace Accidents
Many workplace accidents are preventable, caused by co-workers taking shortcuts and ignoring safety precautions, improper care of an employer to maintain a healthy work environment, or improperly trained employees completing a task.
Some common workplace injuries can occur from:
- Auto accidents
- Chemical burns
- Collapsed walls and ceilings
- Conveyor belt accidents
- Explosions
- Falling scaffolding
- Fires
- Heavy equipment injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
Contact a Kansas City workplace accident lawyer when you need legal guidance. Schedule your free consultation today!
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Missouri and Kansas?
Once you notice the injury, you should report it to your employer in writing as soon as possible.
In Missouri, you have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident.
In Kansas, you have 3 years to file a workers’ comp claim. However, you only have 20 days to report the accident to your employer.
From there, your employer is obligated to immediately contact their workers’ compensation insurance provider and file a claim on your behalf. You may also have to visit a doctor selected by your employer to confirm your injuries.
It’s best to hire a workers’ comp lawyer to help you prepare your claim and maximize the financial compensation you receive.
What Compensation Can I Receive in a Workers’ Comp Case?
- Medical Bills: Coverage for all medical treatments related to your injury or illness, including hospital visits, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and necessary medical equipment.
- Lost Wages: Partial reimbursement for wages lost due to the injury. This is usually 2/3 of your average weekly wage, subject to state-mandated limits.
- Permanent Disability Benefits:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you are unable to work temporarily, you may receive TTD payments.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If your injury leaves you permanently unable to work, you may be eligible for PTD payments.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If you can return to work but with a reduced capacity, PPD compensates you for the permanent limitations.
- Death Benefits: In the case of a worker’s death, the worker’s dependents (spouse, children) may receive death benefits, including funeral expenses and wage replacement.
- In Missouri and Kansas, you can receive up to $5,000 for funeral and burial expenses.
What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured at Work?
If you’ve been injured at work, it’s important to follow these steps so you can increase the likelihood of receiving benefits:
- Report the Injury to Your Employer: Notify your supervisor or HR department about the injury as soon as possible.
- Seek Medical Attention: In many cases, your employer will have you visit a provider within the insurance’s network.
- Document the Incident: Write down details about the accident—when, where, and how it happened. Keep a personal record of any symptoms, medical visits, and how the injury impacts your ability to work.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: After notifying your employer, you’ll need to file a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer or their insurance company should provide the necessary forms and instructions.
- Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: If you suffered a severe injury, your claim is denied, or you encounter any issues, consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair benefits.
Committed Advocacy for Workers’ Comp Claims
Although workers’ compensation is mandatory for most employers, they may still be unwilling to support you in an injury claim. Alternatively, the insurance company may deny your claim altogether — in fact, the vast majority of claims are initially denied.
When that happens, you will need an experienced attorney to help you decide your next steps. Our workers’ comp lawyers in Kansas and Missouri are passionate about helping injury victims get the compensation they need to rest and recover.
Whether you’re facing a lengthy appeals process or dealing with a reluctant employer, you can rely on our vast resources to help you maximize your benefits. Contact DM Injury Law today for a free consultation. You don’t pay us unless we win.
Call (816) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
Past results obtained on behalf of clients afford no guarantee of future results, and every case is different and must be judged based on its own merits.
