You May Be Entitled to More Than Workers' Compensation Benefits

The potential for employees to suffer from injury or illness while on-the-job exists in nearly every industry. This is why Louisiana employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to assist injured workers with medical costs, lost wages and other financial needs as they recover. In some workplace accidents, however, a third party may bear some responsibility for your injuries, and you may be entitled to more than just workers’ compensation benefits.
When many Louisiana employees think of workers’ compensation, they think about an accident that causes broken bones, head injuries and other physical injuries. However, certain illnesses and ailments are also considered to be work-related. Some conditions develop over time, such as carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive motion or hearing loss due to working in a noisy environment, along with illnesses that develop from exposure to toxic chemicals.
Regardless of the circumstances under which you were injured or contracted an illness, it is typically a smart idea to contact an attorney to help you with your workers’ compensation claim. He or she will also evaluate whether grounds exist for a third-party claim. An attorney will review the circumstances surrounding your injury or illness, advise you of your rights and let you know your options.
Work-related injuries or illnesses can be debilitating. While you are recovering, you should not have to worry about how to pay for your medical care or how you will pay your other bills. Your attorney can help you obtain any workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled and, if appropriate, file a claim against the third party or parties that may also be responsible for your injuries. Successfully proving negligence could result in an award of damages that could include an award of damages not applicable to workers’ compensation benefits, such as pain and suffering as well as loss of companionship.