Workers' Compensation laws are very strict and straightforward, and there is very little reason in most cases to hire an attorney. In some cases, however, your arguments against hiring a workers' compensation attorney can hurt you if you don't know your rights.
Fear of Losing Your Job
It is illegal for an employer to fire an employee simply because they were injured, even if they cannot work. Firing an employee unjustly is grounds for a lawsuit; something employers want to avoid. Being advised by an attorney will actually make an employer think twice before firing you.
Inability to Afford a Lawyer
Initial consultations are usually free, and may ease your mind in finding that you actually don't need a lawyer. If you do, workers' compensation laws provide that the attorney fees are set by the court and are only deducted from your benefits if you win. If you lose, you owe the attorney nothing but reimbursement for expenses, and your attorney will generally work with you on repayment of that amount.
Fear of Not Having Medical Bills Paid
Workers' compensation is different from a civil suit in that your employer's insurer will pay for your medical care directly as long as you need it. You will also receive a weekly payment to replace a portion of your wages lost due to the disability caused by your job related injury. If you need medical care after your return to work, those are covered as well. The law also entitles you to compensation for ongoing disability or lost wages resulting from your workers' compensation injury. Since the law on these matters can be confusing, you may need an attorney to insure that you receive your entitled benefits.
Reluctance to Sue Your Employer
You cannot sue for a workers' compensation injury unless the injury was intentionally inflicted by your employer. This may not be apparent to you, unless you were physically attacked by your employer, but there are many details of this law that only an attorney will be able to understand. For example, if your employer knowingly forced you to work under unsafe conditions or with unsafe equipment, that may be considered intentional injury. A workers compensation lawyer can analyze your case and work with the insurance company to ensure that you receive all the benefits you deserve and that they are not unjustly denied or delayed.
Whatever your reasons for not wanting to consult an attorney about your job-related injury, it is in your best interest to do so anyway. You may not need legal representation at first, but as the claim progresses, things can change. It's best to have someone on your side who knows your rights and will fight for them.
