When the family breadwinner is badly injured at work, most families are suddenly in panic mode. Suddenly, expenses have shot up and income is down. The family may have additional child care expenses. There are unplanned trips to the hospital or doctor. Rent or mortgage still need to be paid. Utilities don’t consider medical problems when the bill is due. Stress levels go through the roof.
Injured workers may think that the good relationship that they have with their employer will ensure that things are taken care of. Unfortunately, while the immediate boss may have good intentions, the worker’s compensation insurance company is going to be calling the shots. Good intentions aside, the employer has a financial incentive against helping the employee because successful claims cost employers money in increased worker’s comp insurance premiums.
The insurance company may resist paying for the patient’s physician of choice. The insurance company is motivated to spend as little as possible. The worker’s compensation court system is run by the state and is unlike other court systems. The insurance company will be represented by attorneys who understand the system and its rules. The injured worker and family should not face this alone. If the injury was fatal, it is even more critical that the family consult with someone experienced who can obtain the best result for them.
Worker’s compensation is designed to reimburse injured workers for lost wages and to pay medical and rehabilitation expenses. Benefits are also due when an injury results in permanent injury or death. Getting the benefits that are due to the worker or family may be a long, complicated process.
Malone and Atchison have 50 years of experience handling Workers Comp in Minneapolis and throughout Minnesota. The firm is also very experienced with Social Security disability and personal injury cases.
John Malone was admitted to the Minnesota Bar in 1983. He received his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law, St. Paul, Minnesota in 1983. He also graduated with a B.A. from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1979. He is a member of the American Arbitration Association and the Minnesota Trial Lawyers Association.
Dennis Atchison was admitted to the Minnesota Bar in 1983. He received his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law, St. Paul, Minnesota in 1983. He also graduated with honors from Saint Thomas College, St. Paul, Minnesota in 1981 with a Master in Business Administration degree.
