Have you suffered a workplace injury that has left you unable to work? Are you struggling to understand your rights as a disabled worker and what kind of disability benefits you may qualify for in Nashville? Look no further. Let’s discuss how workers compensation claims work in Nashville and how to protect your rights if you are injured on the job.
Whether you are dealing with a serious injury or permanent disability, our Nashville workers compensation lawyers have got you covered. So if you ever find yourself in such troubled waters, reach out to us without hesitation!
What Is A Nashville Workers Compensation Claim?
If you are injured at work in Nashville, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. In most cases, you’ll have to file a workers compensation claim to receive compensation benefits. This can be a daunting process, but we are here to help.
You’re probably wondering about things like:
- Who is eligible for worker’s compensation benefits?
- How do I file a claim?
- What benefits am I entitled to?
- When can I expect to receive benefits?
Reach out to us, and we assure you that during your initial consultation with a workers compensation lawyer in Nashville from our firm, you’ll understand the workers compensation claims process and what to expect.
What Rights Do I Have Under A Nashville Workers Compensation Claim?
Injured workers in Nashville have certain rights under the state’s workers compensation laws. These laws protect workers who are injured on the job and provide them with financial assistance while they cannot work.
If you are injured on the job, you have the right to:
- Seek medical treatment
- Receive compensation for your lost wages
- Claim benefits if you are unable to return to work due to your injuries or disabilities
Disabled VS. Injured: What’s The Difference?
An injury is sudden and its effects wither off after a couple of days or weeks. However, a disability persists over time.
Injured workers are typically entitled to reimbursement for medical expenses and lost wages. Disabled workers (let’s say if someone loses a limb) may be eligible for additional benefits such as vocational rehabilitation and permanent partial or total disability benefits.
If you’ve been hurt at work, it’s important to understand the difference between being disabled and injured. This way, you’ll know what to expect from your workers compensation claim and make sure you’re getting the full benefits you’re entitled to.
How Are Permanent And Temporary Disability Determined In Tennessee?
In Tennessee, workers compensation pays for two kinds of disability: permanent and temporary. To receive disability benefits, you must have a doctor’s certification of your injury and your inability to work. The amount paid in disability benefits is based on your wage at the time of injury and the degree to which your injury has caused a loss in earnings capacity.
Permanent disability is determined by the Severe Injury Evaluation System put into place by the American Medical Association (AMA). The system uses a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the least disabled and 10 being the most.
Your workers compensation benefits will be based on this rating.
Temporary disability is paid while you are healing from an injury and can’t return to work yet. These benefits are generally 70% of your pre-injury wages, up to a maximum set by state law. You can receive temporary disability benefits for up to two years following your injury.
How Much Will I Receive For Partial Or Total Disability Benefits?
If you can’t work due to a job-related injury or illness, you may be eligible for workers compensation disability benefits. These benefits can provide you with partial or full wage replacement, plus coverage for medical expenses related to your condition.
But you must first file a claim with your employer. Once your claim has been approved, the benefits you’ll receive will be based on your average weekly wage at the time of your injury or illness.
For partial disability benefits, you will receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage. If you are completely disabled and unable to work at all, you’ll receive a bigger sum in total disability benefits. These benefits are tax-free and can be used to help cover things like lost wages, medical bills, and other necessary expenses.
Wondering How Long Your Disability Will Last?
You’re not alone to wonder about this, and the answer varies depending on factors like:
- The nature and severity of your injury
- The expected recovery time
- Whether or not you will be able to return to work
If your injury is severe and prevents you from returning to work, you may be eligible for permanent disability benefits. These benefits can provide you with financial support for as long as you can’t work. If your injury is less severe, you may only be considered temporarily disabled.
In either case, you must consult with an experienced Nashville workers compensation attorney who can help you understand your rights and options under the law.
Let A Nashville Workers Compensation Lawyer Help
If you are injured on the job in Nashville, you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. These benefits can include medical expenses and income replacement if you can’t work. In some cases, workers compensation benefits can also include disability benefits.
An experienced worker’s compensation lawyer in Nashville will help you navigate the process of applying for and receiving disability benefits. We’ll help you gather the necessary documentation, including medical records and wage statements. Also, we’ll ensure that you receive the full extent of the benefits to which you are entitled.
If you are injured at work and unable to return to your job, contact our law firm today for a free initial consultation!