Fort Smith, AR Workers’ Compensation Benefits Suspension Lawyer
If you or a loved was injured in the workplace and got their workman’s comp benefits suspended, you need the help of an experienced, skilled Workers’ Compensation lawyer. Ken Kieklak, Attorney at Law, understands how frustrating dealing with the Workers’ Compensation system can be. That is why we dedicate our practice to making sure your rights as an injured worker are always protected.
To learn more about your potential claim in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (479) 316-0438.
Reasons Workers’ Compensation Benefits Would Be Suspended
There are different reasons your employer can use to justify the suspension of your workman’s comp benefits. Keep in mind that qualifying and obtaining coverage from the Workers’ Compensation system requires you to comply with all the rules and regulations set forth by the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission. Your benefits can be suspended for any of the following reasons:
Your Ability to Work
The purpose behind the Workers’ Compensation benefits is to provide support to injured workers while they are not able to work. This means if you can perform your job-related duties, your employer may suspend your benefits. This applies in cases where an injured worker returns to work for a short period. In the eyes of your employer, all the proof he needs to suspend your benefits is that you can perform your job.
Missing a Medical Appointment
One of the main requirements to qualify for Workers’ Compensation benefits is to obtain medical assistance from an employer-approved physician. It is essential to make sure you receive an evaluation from this specific healthcare professional. Stepping out of this requirement and getting checked by a doctor of your choice can be used as basis for suspending your benefits. Remember that the doctor referred by your employer is in charge of reporting the status of your condition and determining whether you can return to work. Therefore, missing an appointment or refusing to go can result in the suspension of your workman’s comp benefits.
Committing Fraud
Committing fraud to the Workers’ Compensation system can result in the termination of your benefits along with felony charges. It is important to always provide accurate and truthful information to the Workers’ Compensation system to avoid the termination of your benefits and any criminal consequences. You commit Workers’ Compensation fraud if you fake your injury, lie about the place where your injury took place, or provide any other misleading information to keep receiving your benefits.
Refusing a Job
You may not be able to return to your work to perform the same duties you used to perform before your injury. However, your employer may find you can perform another type of tasks related to your job. If your employer offers you a job opportunity with reduced job duties, and you refuse to take it, you may have your benefits suspended. The reason behind this is that you can work despite your injury, and Workers’ Compensation benefits are intended for people who are not able to work.
Paperwork Errors
Qualifying for Workers’ Compensation requires filing specific forms within a time frame. If you fail to file the necessary forms on time or you forget to submit them, it could hurt your chances of obtaining your benefits or have them reduced by your employer.
How Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help You?
Some Workers’ Compensation claims may be resolved quickly and have no complications. However, other cases may prove to be difficult, often requiring the help of an attorney. For instance, there may be cases where an employer rejects a bona fide injury claim hoping to dissuade an injured worker from requesting their benefits. Additionally, there may be times where your employer unfairly delays your compensation.
Furthermore, there may be instances where your employer decides to retaliate against you for filing your claim. If you have experienced discriminatory actions such as demotions, reduction in your wages, unfair treatment, or any other retaliation from filing a justified Workers’ Compensation claim, you need immediate legal representation.
These and other situations require the skill of an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer who can fight to obtain the benefits you need following an occupational injury.
Fort Smith Workers’ Compensation Attorney Offering Free Consultations
If you or a loved one had their workman’s comp benefits suspended, there is no time to waste. Do not try to file your claim on your own; navigating the complexities of the Workers’ Compensation system can be overwhelming and confusing for people who have never been involved in this type of process. Our Fort Smith Workers’ Compensation lawyer Ken Kieklak, Attorney at Law, can help you obtain the benefits you deserve after suffering an injury at the workplace. To learn more about your case in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (479) 316-0438.