General

Springfield Workers' Compensation Attorneys

Helping Injured Workers in Southwest Missouri

When you are injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. These benefits can help you pay for medical expenses and lost wages while you are unable to work. However, the workers' compensation process can be complex and confusing, and many injured workers have their claims denied.

At Webster & Carlton, we understand how important it is for you to receive the benefits you are owed. Our Springfield workers' compensation lawyers can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the maximum benefits you are entitled to. We have a proven track record of success, and we are prepared to put our extensive experience to work for you.

Call our office today at (417) 545-3775 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled workers' compensation attorneys in Springfield.

What Is Workers' Compensation?

Workers' compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. In Missouri, most employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. This insurance is designed to protect both the employer and the employee in the event of a workplace injury.

When an employee is injured on the job, they can file a workers' compensation claim to receive benefits. These benefits can help cover the cost of medical treatment and lost wages while the employee is unable to work. In the event that an employee is killed on the job, their family may be entitled to death benefits.

Workers' compensation is a no-fault system, which means that employees do not have to prove that their employer was negligent in order to receive benefits. In exchange for this no-fault system, employees are generally not allowed to sue their employer for additional damages.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If an employer does not carry workers' compensation insurance, an injured employee may be able to sue their employer for damages. Additionally, if an employee is injured due to a third party's negligence, they may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against that party.

Workers' compensation is a complex area of law, and the claims process can be difficult to navigate. If you have been injured on the job, it is important to consult with an experienced workers' compensation attorney in Springfield as soon as possible.

What Does Workers' Compensation Cover?

Workers' compensation benefits can help cover a wide range of expenses related to a workplace injury. These benefits can help you pay for medical treatment, lost wages, and more.

Workers' compensation benefits in Missouri include:

Medical benefits
Temporary total disability benefits
Permanent total disability benefits
Permanent partial disability benefits
Death benefits

Medical benefits can help cover the cost of all necessary medical treatment related to your injury. This can include doctor's visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and more. In order to receive medical benefits, you must see a doctor who is approved by your employer's workers' compensation insurance company.

Temporary total disability benefits can help cover a portion of your lost wages while you are unable to work. These benefits are typically equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state. You will not receive temporary total disability benefits for the first three days you are unable to work, unless you are unable to work for more than 14 days.

Permanent total disability benefits are available to employees who are permanently unable to work due to their injury. These benefits are typically equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state. Permanent total disability benefits are available for as long as you are unable to work.

Permanent partial disability benefits are available to employees who have suffered a permanent partial disability due to their injury. These benefits are typically equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state. The amount of benefits you receive will depend on the nature and severity of your disability.

Death benefits are available to the surviving family members of an employee who is killed on the job. These benefits can help cover the cost of funeral and burial expenses, as well as a portion of the employee's lost wages. The amount of death benefits you receive will depend on your relationship to the deceased employee.

What Are the Employer's Responsibilities for Workers' Compensation?

Under Missouri law, most employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. This insurance is designed to protect both the employer and the employee in the event of a workplace injury.

What Are the Employee's Responsibilities for Workers' Compensation?

When you are injured on the job, it is important to take the proper steps to protect your right to workers' compensation benefits. Failing to do so can result in your claim being denied.

Here are some steps you should take if you are injured on the job:

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. You must report the injury within 30 days in order to be eligible for benefits.
Seek medical treatment for your injuries. You must see a doctor who is approved by your employer's workers' compensation insurance company in order to be eligible for medical benefits.
Follow your doctor's orders and attend all follow-up appointments.
Keep a record of all medical treatment related to your injury, as well as any expenses you incur.
Keep a record of all missed work and lost wages.
Consult with an experienced workers' compensation attorney in Springfield.

When you file a workers' compensation claim, your employer's insurance company will review the claim and determine whether to approve or deny it. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. An experienced workers' compensation attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and fight for the benefits you are owed.

How Long Do I Have to File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, you have 30 days to report a workplace injury to your employer. If you fail to report the injury within this time frame, you may be ineligible for workers' compensation benefits.

Once you have reported the injury to your employer, you have two years to file a workers' compensation claim. If you fail to file a claim within this time frame, you may be ineligible for benefits.

It is important to note that these deadlines may be extended in certain circumstances. For example, if you were not immediately aware of your injury, you may have more time to report it. Additionally, if you were a minor at the time of the injury, the deadlines may be extended.

How Our Springfield Workers' Compensation Lawyers Can Help

When you choose us to handle your workers' compensation claim, we will:

Conduct a thorough investigation into your accident and gather all available evidence
Handle all paperwork and administrative tasks related to your claim
Calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and more
Consult with experts to help build a strong case on your behalf
Negotiate with the insurance company to seek a fair settlement
Prepare your case for trial, if necessary

Our Springfield workers' compensation attorneys are committed to providing each and every client with the compassionate, personalized legal representation they deserve. We will work closely with you to understand your unique situation and develop a legal strategy that is tailored to your needs. You can rely on us to provide you with the honest, straightforward legal advice you need to make informed decisions about your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If you have been injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. Our Springfield workers' compensation lawyers can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the benefits you are owed. We offer a free initial consultation, so you have nothing to lose by speaking with us about your case.

Call our office today at (417) 545-3775 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled workers' compensation attorneys in Springfield.

Meet Our Team

Committed to Working Tirelessly on Your Behalf to Get You the Compensation You Are Owed

Associations

Why Choose Webster & Carlton?

Experienced Firm
With over 48 years of collective legal expertise, the legal professionals at Webster & Carlton, specializing in workers' compensation, are dedicated to navigating the complexities of Missouri's workers' compensation system, and obtaining the compensation, medical treatment, and support our clients deserve.
Client First Representation
Our firm has a focus on clear communication, transparency, and personalized service, we ensure that our clients are well-informed and actively involved throughout the legal process. From the initial consultation to case resolution, we prioritize building strong attorney-client relationships based on trust and collaboration.
Detailed Oriented Preparation
At Wester & Carlton, we pride ourselves on our meticulous approach to each case. Our commitment to detail ensures thorough preparation for all aspects of your legal journey, be it mediation, trials, or any other events your case may involve. You can trust that your case will receive the detailed attention it deserves.
Virtual & Free Consultations

Better understand your legal options and ensure an informed decision by contacting us to arrange a free consultation. Experience the added convenience of virtual consultations, allowing you to delve into your case, pose relevant questions, and gain valuable insights from our team, wherever you are located.

Stay In The Know

Why Do I Need a Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorney?

A workers’ compensation claim can take several months, even years, to resolve, especially if you continue to suffer from the effects of your work-related injury. Your employer and its insurance company will be represented by highly skilled attorneys who know how to exploit an injured employee. You need to level the playing field by hiring a Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer who will fight on your behalf.
What Happens If My Employer Denies Me Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

In many cases, your employer or their insurance company will promptly pay any workers’ compensation benefits. But if they deny benefits–or stop paying them before you receive what you believe you are entitled to under the law–then you have the right to file a claim with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation. An administrative law judge appointed by the Division will review your claim and either conduct mediation between you and your employer, or alternatively hold a formal hearing to determine your right to compensation.
What Kinds of Injuries Are Covered?

Under Missouri law, workers’ compensation only covers injuries that arise “out of and in the course of employment.” This includes accidents that occur during your work shift. It also includes “occupational diseases” contracted at work, provided workplace exposure was the “prevailing” cause.
Workers’ compensation is not necessarily limited to injuries suffered at your normal workplace. If your job requires you to travel–i.e., make deliveries or conduct on-site work with clients–you may be compensated for injuries sustained in the course of such travel. However, Missouri workers’ compensation law specifically excludes injuries sustained while commuting from home to work and back, even if you use a company-owned car.

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In the event of a workplace injury, securing compensation for lost wages, medical bills, rehabilitation, and related expenses requires the expertise of a seasoned workers' compensation attorney.

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