Rochester Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Have you suffered devastating injuries in a work-related accident? Are you going to be unable to work due to the severity of your injuries? If you are worried about how you are going to continue to support yourself financially while you are out of work, you may finally be able to breathe easier.

The majority of employers in the state of Minnesota are required by law to provide their employees with workers’ compensation coverage. If you were injured in an on-the-job accident, or another type of workplace accident, you may be entitled to Rochester workers’ compensation benefits. This includes coverage for wage loss, which can help you maintain your financial stability while you recover.

While workers’ compensation benefits are essential for those injured at work, it’s also crucial to emphasize that ensuring workplace safety is paramount to preventing such incidents from occurring in the first place.

Find out how an experienced workers’ compensation attorney at Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer could help you secure the benefits that are rightfully yours when you contact our office for a free consultation. Call us at (877) 630-7338 to get started.

Why Choose Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer to Take on Your Case

Choosing the right workers’ compensation attorney to take on your case in Rochester can be an overwhelming process. But when you go with Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer, you get:

• Experienced litigators who have secured tens of millions of millions of dollars in unpaid and denied benefits
• And open and direct line of communication with your workers’ comp lawyer
• No fees unless or until we win your case
• No-cost, risk-free consultations
• Individualized legal representation

These are just a few of the benefits that you get when you choose Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer to take on your Rochester workers’ compensation case. Find out more about how our firm could help you when you contact our office for a free case review.

Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation in Rochester?

Many individuals who are injured at work in Rochester may be hesitant to file a workers’ compensation claim. This is often because they are not sure whether they meet the criteria needed in order to qualify for benefits.

But under the law, your employer is more than likely required to provide you with workers’ compensation coverage from the moment that you are hired. Although not every company in Minnesota is ordered to purchase workers’ compensation insurance policies, the vast majority are.

It does not matter how many hours you work every week, nor does it matter whether you work part-time or full-time hours. What matters is that you are an employee of the company and that your injuries occurred within the scope of your employment.

That does not necessarily mean that the insurance company is going to be willing to settle your claim fairly. In fact, you can almost count on the insurer doing everything possible to avoid approving your Rochester workers’ compensation.

Types of Injuries That Can Happen on the Job

Workplace injuries can occur in various industries and occupations, and it is essential for both employers and employees to be aware of the potential risks involved. Here are some examples of common injuries that can happen on the job:

• Slips, trips, and falls 
• Repetitive strain injuries 
• Back and neck injuries 
• Burns and electrical shocks 
• Head and brain injuries 
• Sprains and strains 
• Cuts and lacerations 
• Exposure to harmful substances or chemicals 
• Respiratory problems 
• Fractures and broken bones

What Are Rochester Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Severe work injuries often mean it is impossible for you to continue working. While you are recovering from the impact of your injuries, you will still need to cover certain expenses and be able to provide for yourself and your family.

In addition to financial support, workers’ compensation benefits can also help cover the costs associated with necessary medical treatment, ensuring you receive the care needed for your recovery.

If your claim for workers’ compensation benefits is approved, there are several different benefits that may be afforded to you. Here is more about which benefits you could collect if your Rochester workers’ compensation claim is approved.

Coverage of Medical Expenses

First, you can expect your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider to be ordered to cover your medical expenses as they relate to your work injury. This means that the insurance company should cover all of your healthcare bills and other related expenses, some of which might include:

• Hospital bills
• Medical equipment
• Costs of mental health counseling
• Costs of rehabilitative therapy
• Co-pays
• Costs of prescription medications

When you are injured at work you should not be expected to foot the bill. The insurance company should cover your medical expenses both now and in the future. For this reason, it is important that you have an experienced attorney on your side who can ensure that you are awarded the benefits that are rightfully yours.

Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits

It is not unusual for people who are injured at work to suffer injuries that are so severe that they are unable to continue working in the same industry. If this is what has happened to you, you may be entitled to vocational rehabilitation benefits.

Here, the insurance company will probably be required to provide you with coverage of the costs associated with education opportunities or job training that will allow you to find gainful employment in another line of work.

Disability Benefits

Your disability benefits are what is going to help you support yourself while you are out of work. For the vast majority of individuals collecting workers’ compensation in Rochester, the amount of disability benefits that you are awarded will amount to approximately 66 percent of your average weekly earnings.

Generally speaking, you will be able to collect these benefits until your injuries heal and you are able to return to work. However, depending on the type of injury you sustained, whether your injury is permanent or partial, and other factors, the amount of time that you are allowed to collect disability benefits can vary considerably.

Understanding the specific restrictions on your ability to work due to your injuries is crucial, as this will directly impact the amount and duration of your wage loss benefits. If your injuries result in long-term restrictions or a permanent disability, you may qualify for additional benefits, such as permanent partial disability or vocational rehabilitation benefits. These programs are designed to support you in adapting to a new career or transitioning back into the workforce, despite any limitations.

Find out how much your workers’ compensation benefits could be worth and how long you can obtain benefits when you contact our office.

Death and Dependency Benefits

Death and dependency benefits may be available to surviving family members of individuals who passed away due to work-related injuries. These death benefits are designed to provide financial support to those left behind during a difficult time.

Depending on how you are related to the decedent, how many children you may share together, and other factors, your family could collect approximately 66 percent or less of the decedent’s average weekly wages as part of your death and dependency benefits.

Furthermore, the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider will also be obligated to cover the cost of reasonable funeral and burial expenses.

Do You Need an Attorney for Your Workers’ Comp Claim?

While workers’ compensation claims may seem straightforward, it’s important to note that benefits can sometimes be denied or delayed. The insurer may claim a lack of evidence or believe that your injuries were not work-related. To strengthen your case, you need an advocate on your side—and a Rochester workers’ comp attorney from Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer can help.

Hiring one of our workers’ comp lawyers can benefit your case in several ways:

• In-depth knowledge and experience: Our attorneys specialize in workers’ compensation law and have extensive knowledge of the legal framework and regulations surrounding these claims. They understand the intricacies of the system and can navigate it effectively on your behalf.
• Building a strong case: Our attorneys will gather all the necessary evidence to support your claim. They will interview witnesses, review medical records, collect relevant documentation, and consult with experts if needed. This thorough approach helps build a compelling case in your favor.
• Maximizing your benefits: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and will fight to ensure you receive the maximum benefits available under the law. They will also assess the long-term implications of your injuries and seek compensation for future medical expenses or permanent disability.
• Handling paperwork and deadlines: Workers’ compensation claims involve extensive paperwork and strict deadlines. Our attorneys will handle all the necessary documentation, ensuring that everything is completed accurately and submitted on time. This reduces the risk of errors or omissions that could potentially harm your claim.
• Representing your appeal: If your claim is denied, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to the next level. They have the expertise to present your case persuasively, challenge the insurer’s arguments, and fight for your rights and compensation during an appeal.
• Providing peace of mind: Dealing with a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, especially when you are already dealing with the physical and emotional challenges of an injury. Hiring an attorney allows you to focus on your recovery while knowing that a dedicated advocate is handling the complexities of your case.

How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Rochester, Minnesota

To initiate a workers’ compensation claim in Rochester, it is important to act quickly. Take the following steps after your injury to protect your future case:

• Seek immediate medical attention: Your well-being should be your priority. If you sustain a workplace injury, promptly seek medical assistance. Inform the healthcare professional about the incident and why you believe it is work-related. 
• Notify your employer: It is crucial to inform your employer about your injury as soon as possible. Delaying notification may result in a denial of your workers’ compensation claim. Consider delivering a written notice to your employer, ensuring you retain proof of your communication.
• Await the decision: The workers’ compensation insurer will assess your claim and provide you with a Notice of Insurer’s Primary Liability Determination form, indicating whether your claim has been accepted or denied. If you disagree with the insurer’s decision, you can initiate an appeal.

Call a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Rochester Today

If you have already applied for Rochester workers’ compensation and your claim has been denied, or if you want to prepare ahead and get legal help filing your claim for workers’ compensation benefits, reach out to a committed Rochester workers’ compensation lawyer at Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer.

Schedule your no-cost, risk-free claim review when you complete our online contact form or call our office at (877) 630-7338.