Minnesota workers compensation provides a different form of "damages" then one would receive in a personal injury accident such as a car accident or medical malpractice claim. The reason is that "negligence" is not a factor in determining the cause of the injury or damages. It's not relevant whether your co-worker or employer are negligent or that your injuries prevent you from doing the personal or social activities you did before your injury.
You can expect to receive lost wage benefits, vocational assistance to keep or find a new job, payment of your medical expenses and a small payment for any resulting permanent disability.
When I meet with new clients I'm always up front and tell them that these benefits may not seem fair, because in many instances they are not. Especially when your employer or co-worker were grossly negligent. I agree, Minnesota's workers compensation system is not fair. I had a work injury too; a low back surgery many years ago. After being off of work for months, being forced to give up activities I loved, having to hire people to perform household chores I can no longer perform, I received a small sum of money for my troubles. Yep, it isn't fair.
Our lawyers ensure that even if you believe you are receiving all of the benefits listed above, you are receiving the proper amount. Often the basis for your wage loss is incorrect, or you are directed by the insurance company or your employer to treat only with a particular doctor who doesn't have your best interest in mind. Everyone who has a work injury should take 30 minutes to speak to an experienced work comp expert. Not a "dabbler" or "baby lawyer". At Atkinson Law, we specialize in workers compensation, we have over 60 years combined experience and year after year are chosen as Super Lawyers by our peers and judges. Call today for an appointment. 651-333-3636.
Injured at work or suffering from an injury that may be caused or aggravated by your job? Let our expert workers compensation lawyers with over 60 years combined experience help you find answers to your work comp questions including; temporary partial disability, temporary total disability, permanent total disability, medical benefits, layoffs, pain and suffering, retraining, discontinuance of benefits, attorney fees, and light duty work. To speak to a MN work comp expert call 651-333-3636