Many employers in Little Rock, Arkansas, must provide their workers with workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If you were hurt at work and are struggling to get benefits under your employer’s policy, the Morris Bart law firm may be able to help. You can speak with a member of our team today in a free, no-obligation consultation.
If we determine that we can help you appeal a denial or otherwise help you pursue benefits that should be available to you, a Little Rock workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm may be able to represent you on a contingency fee basis.
To learn more, call the Morris Bart law firm at (501) 588-3304 today. A member of our team can evaluate your case for free and explain how we can help when you call.
Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Requirements
Under Arkansas’ workers’ compensation laws consolidated in Arkansas Code § 11-9, employers who meet certain qualifications must pay for workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. There are some exemptions, including businesses with less than three employers and some industry exemptions.
For employees who are covered, a wide range of injuries may qualify for worker’s compensation benefits, such as:
- Workplace accident injuries
- Illnesses caused by the workplace environment
- Psychological and emotional conditions
- Repetitive motion injuries
- And more
Getting your workers’ compensation benefits started after suffering an illness or injury requires you and your employer to work together. According to the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission, you must report your injury to your employer and have the employer file a “First Report of Injury or Illness” with the insurance company.
For a free legal consultation with a Workers’ Compensation lawyer serving Little Rock, call 800-537-8185
You May Have Options After a Denial of Benefits
Workers’ compensation claims are not always approved the first time. If your benefits were wrongfully denied, a Little Rock workers’ compensation lawyer from the Morris Bart law firm may be able to help you appeal the denial directly through the insurance company or in court.
Sometimes, claims are denied if your employer challenges that your injuries are work-related.
You could also receive a denial from the insurance carrier itself if they do not believe that your injuries pass the required severity thresholds. There may also be additional issues that lead to an insurance carrier denying a workers’ compensation claim. An appeal of this decision may be necessary.
If you cannot work because of an on-the-job injury but received a denial, the Morris Bart law firm may able to:
- Examine your worker’s compensation insurance policy
- Investigate your accident and your injuries for additional proof
- Interpret the insurance company’s reason for denial
- Challenge their denial with additional evidence or on trial
These actions may allow you to start receiving benefits or a one-time settlement payment for your work-related injuries. We can also assist with workers who want help with filing their initial workers’ compensation applications.
To learn more about these services and to discuss your case in a free consultation with a member of our team, contact the Morris Bart law firm today at (501) 588-3304.
Types of Benefits Available Under Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits that may allow workers to stay afloat after a workplace injury or illness. Coverage of medical care costs and the wage benefits are key to ensuring injured workers can get the care they need without financial struggles while they are out of work or cannot earn their full average wages.
Workers’ compensation benefits may include:
- Payment of your related medical care costs and other expenses up to the policy limit, including surgery, hospital stays, medication, and more
- Wage replacement benefits covering a portion of your average wages, up to the policy limit
Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy may offer additional benefits as well.
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Time Limits on Taking Action to Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits
There are time limits, deadlines, waiting periods, and other important facts you should understand about Arkansas workers’ compensation law and how it may affect your case. These include:
Reporting Your Injury
Workers who are hurt on the job in Arkansas must typically report their injuries to their employer as soon as possible after their injury occurs.
Filing a Claim
The time limit for filing a workers’ compensation claim is somewhat complex. In general, you may have two years following the date your injuries, according to Arkansas Code § 11-9-702. However, some circumstances could force you to take action sooner. Failing to act before your deadline expires could prevent you from recovering compensation.
Waiting Period for Benefits
Per Arkansas Code § 11-9-501, your workers’ compensation lost wage benefits will typically not begin until the ninth day you miss from work because of your illness or injury.
Speak with a Member of Our Workers’ Compensation Team in Little Rock
You do not need to face a contested workers’ compensation claim or the appeals process alone. A Little Rock workers’ compensation lawyer from the Morris Bart law firm may be able to help you fight a denial and pursue benefits or a settlement on your behalf. We can handle all communications and legal tasks when we represent you so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Let the Morris Bart law firm review your case for free. Call our office today at (501) 588-3304. A member of our team is standing by to discuss your accident and injuries and help you understand your legal options.
The Morris Bart law firm handles many cases on a contingency fee basis, where our clients do not pay for services unless and until they recover compensation. Call now for your no-obligation case review.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.