Jackson Workplace Accident Lawyer
Though there are certain work environments that are more dangerous than others, statistics from the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission (MWCC) indicate that workplace accidents can happen any time and in any industry. There are more than 11,000 total claims filed statewide every year, and Hinds County ranks at the top with 9.85 percent. For injured employees and their families, the losses will start to mount immediately. Aside from medical bills and other expenses, a victim could be missing out on work and wages.
Fortunately, the state workers’ comp system is intended to protect employees who are hurt in workplace accidents. You may be entitled to monetary benefits, though the process is complicated and eligibility rules are strict. To ensure you get the amounts you deserve, trust our lawyer at Keith B. French Law to assist with the claims process. Please contact us to set up a no-cost case evaluation with a Jackson workplace accident lawyer, and read on for some background information.
Summary of Mississippi Workers’ Comp Laws
The goal of the system is to get injured employees the medical care they need right away, so they can recover and get back to work as soon as possible. As such, you are not required to prove that your employer was at fault in causing your medical condition. However, you must qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Eligibility rules include:
- You must be a covered employee, as opposed to an independent contractor.
- Your employer must have at least five employees, which triggers the legal requirement to procure workers’ comp insurance.
- You must have been injured in a work-related accident;
- You must notify your employer of your injuries within 30 days after the incident, though it is wise to do so immediately.
Note that there is a caveat in Mississippi’s workers’ comp laws when it comes to no-fault: Workers’ comp is your sole remedy, so you cannot file a civil lawsuit to recover damages.
Workers’ Comp Benefits for Qualifying Employees
You initiate the workers’ comp process through your notification to the employer, and some claims are approved right away. Having a Jackson workers’ compensation attorney on your side ensures you can tackle any obstacles in dealing with the insurer. Legal representation is also critical if you need to take next steps through a hearing and workers’ comp appeal.
Our team at Keith B. French Law works diligently to ensure you get the full range of workers’ comp benefits, which may include:
- Costs of medical treatment now and in the future;
- Wage replacement if you miss work;
- Permanent and temporary disability benefits for total and partial disabilities; and
- Death benefits for surviving family members after a fatal workplace accident.
Contact Our Jackson Workplace Accidents Lawyer to Learn More
The benefits described above will be extremely useful if you were hurt in a workplace accident, but only if you are successful in the claims process. Eligible employees avoid hassles by retaining Keith B. French Law, so please contact our offices in Jackson today. You can schedule a free consultation by calling 601-983-2667 or going online.