Old Lyme Workers Compensation Attorney
In Old Lyme, workers who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses may be entitled to benefits under Connecticut’s workers’ compensation laws. An experienced Old Lyme workers’ compensation lawyer can help make sure that your rights are protected throughout the entirety of your case.
Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Old Lyme, CT
Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law is the largest law firm based in eastern Connecticut, with a history dating back over 80 years. With a team-oriented culture and deep commitment to client service, our firm understands that no two cases are the same.
Our attorneys approach every new client with empathy and a custom legal strategy for their unique situation. We offer Old Lyme residents free consultations to discuss the details of their cases.
Workers’ Compensation Laws in Connecticut
In 2021, Connecticut had a reported 32,700 private industry injuries and illnesses. Of these cases, 21,700 were considered severe, requiring days away from work, restriction, or job transfer.
All part-time and full-time employees in Connecticut are protected under the Workers’ Compensation Act from their first day on the job. Workers’ compensation provides medical care and wage replacement if someone is hurt or becomes sick because of work.
This is the only way employees can get these benefits, meaning they can’t open a case against their employer for additional compensation. Connecticut operates under a no-fault system, meaning that fault for the incident doesn’t have to be proven in order to get benefits.
However, employees in Connecticut often face pushback. It can be discouraging for injured or ill employees to be denied compensation, especially when their job is their livelihood. It’s important to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer during these times to handle your claims and appeals process for you, so you can focus on recovery. They know the full extent of workers’ rights laws and can ensure your rights are protected.
What to Do After a Workplace Incident
Old Lyme is known for its blend of small businesses and tech companies. Many Old Lyme residents work for major regional employers, such as:
- General Dynamics Electric Boat
- Pfizer, Inc.
- Various U.S. Navy-affiliated businesses in nearby cities like New London, Groton, and beyond
Some of the most dangerous occupations in Connecticut include:
- Production
- Transportation
- Material moving occupations
There were 12 total fatal incidents reported in these industries in 2022. Facing a workplace injury or illness can be devastating and life-altering. If you’re involved in a workplace incident, the first step is reporting it right away to your employer. You’ll then need to accept the initial medical treatment from the doctor the employer chooses.
If the situation is dire, seek medical care right away at a hospital, such as the Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, located at 365 Montauk Ave in New London. Your health and safety are the priority.
After the first treatment, the employee can choose their own doctor and must share visit records with their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company. The insurance company pays for your medical care and will pay you a percentage of your normal weekly wages.
If you find that your employer is denying compensation or insisting you return to work before you’re ready, an experienced lawyer can advocate on your behalf. These types of cases are usually overseen at the New London County Courthouse, located at 70 Huntington Street in New London.
Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Here at Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law, we understand how taxing a workplace injury or illness can be. We’ve helped to support our clients through the toughest times in their lives, and we strive to make the legal process easier for them to handle.
As longtime Connecticut residents, our personal injury attorneys in Old Lyme love our communities and are driven to protect the legal rights of our neighbors. We are committed to uplifting Connecticut through our scholarships, sponsorships, donations, fundraisers, and active participation in dozens of local organizations. Let us show you our dedication through your first free consultation with our team.
FAQs
A: Workers’ compensation helps cover your medical treatment, pays a percentage of your weekly wages while you’re unable to work, and may offer job training if you can’t return to your old job. You may also qualify for extra compensation if you have permanent physical damage, visible scars, or disfigurement from the injury. These benefits are meant to support your recovery and help you get back on your feet.
A: After filing your workers’ compensation claim, a claims adjuster will contact you. Remember that adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Speak truthfully, but don’t speculate on your medical condition or give unnecessary personal or medical details. Avoid recorded statements or signing documents without review. Be polite, take notes, and ask questions. To protect your rights, consider speaking to an attorney who can help you through the process and fight for the benefits you deserve.
A: If your doctor says you can do “light duty” or work with restrictions, ask your employer if they have a job that fits within those limitations. If they don’t, you’ll need to register with the Connecticut Job Service and look for work near you, even if it’s not your usual job type. If you find part-time work that pays less than your normal job, you may get partial wage benefits.
A: If your work injury prevents you from working at all, you may qualify for temporary total disability benefits. This pays 75% of your average weekly wages after taxes. If you can still work but not in the same way or for the same number of hours, you may receive temporary partial disability benefits. This also pays 75%, but only of the difference between what you earned before the injury and what you are earning now.
Choose a Trusted Old Lyme Law Firm
With our decades of experience and as a pillar of eastern Connecticut, our team is the right choice to help you during your workers’ compensation case. We support you every step of the way. We proudly serve Old Lyme residents and residents in surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your first free consultation.
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