Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workplace accidents can happen in any industry, from construction and manufacturing to office settings and retail environments. Some of the most common types of workplace accidents include:

• • Slip and Fall Accidents: Slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting can lead to falls that result in serious injuries.
  • Repetitive Stress Injuries: Jobs that require repetitive motions, such as typing or assembly line work, can cause conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Machinery Accidents: Improper use of machinery or lack of safety precautions can lead to severe injuries, including amputations and crush injuries.
  • Falls from Heights: Construction workers, roofers, and others who work at elevated heights are at risk of falling, leading to broken bones, head injuries, or spinal cord damage.
  • Vehicle Accidents: Workers who drive as part of their job, such as delivery drivers or truck drivers, face the risk of motor vehicle accidents.
  • Exposure to Harmful Substances: Employees in industries such as manufacturing or healthcare may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, leading to respiratory illnesses or other long-term health problems.

Workers’ compensation benefits in Massachusetts provide financial and medical support to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. These benefits may include:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, physical therapy, and other necessary medical treatments.
• Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD): If you are unable to work for at least five calendar days due to your injury, you may be entitled to weekly compensation equal to 60% of your average weekly wage.
• Temporary Partial Disability Benefits (TPD): If you can return to work but at a reduced capacity, you may receive compensation equal to 75% of your TTD benefits.
• Permanent and Total Disability Benefits (PTD): If your injury prevents you from returning to any form of gainful employment, you may receive weekly benefits equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage for life.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: If you are unable to return to your previous job, you may qualify for job retraining and placement assistance.
• Death Benefits: If a worker dies as a result of a job-related injury or illness, surviving dependents may receive compensation and funeral expense coverage.

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Massachusetts involves several critical steps:

1. Report the Injury: Notify your employer as soon as possible after the injury occurs. Massachusetts law requires employees to report workplace injuries within a reasonable timeframe.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Obtain medical care for your injury and inform the healthcare provider that it is work-related.
3. Employer’s Report: Your employer must file an Employer’s First Report of Injury with their workers’ compensation insurance provider if you are unable to work for five or more days.
4. Insurer’s Response: The insurance company will review the claim and determine whether to approve or deny benefits. If approved, you will begin receiving payments.
5. Appealing a Denied Claim: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision by filing a claim with the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA).

The workers’ compensation process can be complex, and employers or insurers may try to minimize your benefits or deny your claim. Having an experienced Massachusetts workers’ compensation lawyer on your side ensures that your rights are protected. At Wyskiel, Boc, Tillinghast & Bolduc, P.A., we will:

• Guide you through the claims process and ensure all paperwork is filed correctly.
• Gather medical evidence and expert testimony to support your case.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
• Represent you in hearings or appeals if your claim is denied.

Call (603) 742-5222 or complete our online contact form today to discuss your case with our team.