Workers Compensation in Gulfport, MS

Even straightforward workers’ compensation cases in Gulfport can encounter unexpected hurdles. The detail matters significantly, from filing your claim correctly to understanding the benefits available to you. This stress after getting injured on the job can be overwhelming and demoralizing.

However, imagine a scenario where your claim goes smoothly because you have an experienced ally. This situation is not just wishful thinking. It can be your reality. A local attorney can secure the medical care and financial support you need to recover.

Start by reading this informative article to arm yourself with essential knowledge. You may have more options and legal remedies than you think!

Workers Compensation Statistics in Gulfport, Mississippi

The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides insight into the extent of workplace injuries in Mississippi. Transportation accidents were the most common cause of fatalities. Falls, slips, and trips in cities like Gulfport are a close second.

How Does Workers Comp Work in Gulfport, Mississippi?

Unfortunately, going through the process of applying for workers’ compensation begins with getting sick or injured on the job. The circumstances surrounding the incident that led to your problems are especially crucial. For example, the injury had to occur during your regular work duties. While an event that happens during your lunch break wouldn’t apply, getting into a car accident while running an errand for your boss would qualify for a claim.

There is a critical time limit for filing workers’ compensation claims from Gulfport. Employees have 30 days to notify their employer of the incident. Then, there is a two-year window to file a formal claim with the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission.

For example, say your supervisor asked you to drop something off on your lunch break. While running this errand you then get in a car accident on your way to the destination. Any resulting injury is eligible for workers’ compensation. However, if you are on your lunch break, performing no such task when you get in an accident, it does not qualify for a claim.

The steps you take immediately following a workplace incident in Gulfport, Mississippi are critical for purposes of filing a claim for compensation. Follow the following steps to preserve your rights and learn how workers comp works.

Get Medical Attention

After you get injured or feel ill, the first step is to see a doctor. Don’t delay seeking help from a Gulfport, Mississippi healthcare professional. This could not only jeopardize your health, but you run the risk of missing time-sensitive deadlines in the workers’ compensation process. Having a proper medical report detailing the extent of the damage and how it occured is the first step in the process. Your employer cannot file a claim with their insurance carrier without this information.

When dealing with a job-related illness, the symptoms and diagnosis may not happen right away. You may find yourself attending regular checkups and testing for weeks or months before a doctor finally associates your illness with your job. Your doctor may make the determination that the illness is either the result of your work conditions or aggravated by them. Once they do, see your human resources representative to file a workers’ compensation claim.

File a First Report of Injury

The first report of an on the job injury or illness will provide the workers’ compensation insurance carrier with the details of the events leading up to the injury. In this report, you will provide your physical injuries, the medical treatment you received and the facilities that provided it. It’s always a good idea to bring a copy of the doctor’s report to submit with the report of injury.

Timeline and Other Information

The timeline to receive workers’ compensation benefits in Mississippi varies based on the case. But generally, it follows a structured process. For instance, benefits usually start within 14 days of notifying your employer in Gulfport. Nonetheless, it can take several weeks to months when there are disputes.

Your employer should furnish you with information about the claims process. The adjuster or insurance carrier representative may want to speak to you at some point about the incident and any possible witnesses to the event. In the meantime, the workers’ comp insurer may begin paying medical benefits while the investigation into your claim continues.

Why You Should Hire a Gulfport, Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

While workers’ compensation claims may be straightforward for some cases in Gulfport, Mississippi, in others, it may be more difficult. For example, your employer may decide to question whether you were hurt on the clock or your own time. It’s also common for a company to question the full extent of your injury. Hiring a Gulfportworkers’ comp lawyer ensures that you have an advocate to fight for your rights as a victim.

Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer In Gulfport, Mississippi

If you are hurt or contract an illness as a result of your job in Gulfport, Mississippi you need to find the right people to help. Since the workers’ compensation claims process can have pitfalls, you should consider getting a local attorney who knows how to avoid them.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!