Southern Missouri Workers' Compensation Attorney

image of injured worker on the ground with co-worker trying to help him

Workplace accidents result in thousands of injuries each year in Southern Missouri. If you have suffered an injury or illness on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Obtaining these benefits is challenging because insurance carriers and employers often contest valid claims. The best way to protect your rights after a workplace accident in Southern Missouri is to consult with a capable workers’ compensation attorney. 

At Privette Law Office, we believe that all workers have a right to a safe work environment. When an accident occurs, they often get the run around trying to collect their workers’ compensation benefits. Our attorneys know the tactics insurers and employers use to contest claims and will help you fight back. Backed by nearly 40 years of experience, we have a proven history of protecting the rights of injured workers throughout Missouri, specifically in counties like Greene County and Wright County.

When you meet with us, we will listen to your concerns, learn about your injury and work history, and explore your options. Knowing that missing work due to an injury means lost income and mounting medical bills, your initial consultation will be free and you will not pay any attorneys’ fees until we get you the benefits you need and deserve. Contact us today so we can start working on your claim. 

Am I Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect workers who suffer work-related injuries and occupational illnesses. Notably, the worker’s compensation program is a no-fault system that covers injured workers even if they were responsible for the accident that caused their injuries. At the same time, they cannot file personal injury lawsuits against their employers.  

To qualify for worker’s compensation benefits in Southern Missouri, you must have suffered an injury or illness in the course and scope of your employment. Unfortunately, claims are often denied by insurance carriers who put profits ahead of injured workers, while some employers contest claims to avoid hikes in insurance premiums. You can trust the workers’ compensation attorneys at Privette Law Office will stand by you and protect your rights.

What Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in Southern Missouri?

If you have suffered a work-related illness or injury, you can collect benefits such as:

  • Medical Treatment  – Your medical expenses, including doctor’s exams, surgeries, rehabilitative care, physical therapy, prescription medications, and assistive devices (e.g. crutches, braces, orthotics) are automatically covered.
  • Wage Replacement – You will receive two-thirds of your average weekly wages determined by a statutory formula and capped at a certain limit. Temporary wage benefits will be paid until your doctor declares you are medically able to return to work.
  • Permanent Disability – If you cannot return to work, you can obtain permanent income benefits, based on factors such as the nature of your injury, your age and occupation, and a doctor’s analysis of the percentage of lost work potential. 
  • Vocational Retraining – If you have suffered a permanent disability, you may be eligible for vouchers that cover the costs of retraining and educational programs to help you learn new skills.
  • Death Benefits – In addition to covering injured workers, the workers’ compensation program offers a death benefit to compensate surviving family members of a worker who suffers a fatal injury. 

Because obtaining benefits is challenging, it is essential to have our experienced Southern Missouri workers’ compensation attorneys on your side.

What to Do After A Workplace Accident Injury

After a workplace accident that causes an injury, seek medical treatment and tell your doctor your injury was job-related. You must notify your supervisor in writing of the injury promptly, typically within 30 days of the incident. You may jeopardize your right to benefits if you fail to do so. Your employer must file a Report of Injury with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation within 30 days of being notified.

Although you have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a claim, it is wise to file as soon as possible. Also, keep notes of your doctor’s visits and maintain records of any treatment you receive. This will be valuable evidence that supports your workers’ compensation claim. You should know that you may be required to undergo an examination by a physician chosen by your employer. The results of this exam will be an important factor in the outcome of your claim. 

What’s a Common Workplace Accident and Possible Injury in Southern Missouri

Workers can be injured in all types of accidents, such as:

  • Slip and Fall Accidents – Construction workers are at a high risk of falls from heights (ladders, scaffolding, crossbeams, roofs), while anyone (including office workers) can slip and fall due to slippery surfaces, poorly lit or cluttered walkways, and other hazards.
  • Manual Labor – Workers who routinely lift, carry, and move heavy items (e.g. boxes, furniture, tools, construction material) can suffer injuries to the back, shoulder, and arms that are referred to as repetitive motion injuries.
  • Vehicles/Moving Equipment – Vehicles like a forklift can strike other workers or roll over and injure the operator. Similarly, cranes and other machinery at construction sites can collapse or trap workers in-between objects. 
  • Workplace Hazards – Workers in all types of industries (e.g. construction, factories, restaurants) are frequently exposed to fires, burns, explosions, chemicals, electrical wiring, and other hazards that cause injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.

The Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Privette Law Office regularly handle worker’s compensation claims in Greene County and neighboring counties arising from injuries such as:

  • Back injuries
  • Burn injuries
  • Head injuries
  • Carpal tunnel
  • Hearing/vision loss
  • Fractures
  • Knee injuries 
  • Loss of limb
  • Muscle and ligament damage
  • Occupational illnesses
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries

Let us handle all the details of your claim so you can focus on recovering. 

Contact Our Experienced Southern Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

If you or a loved one has suffered a work-related injury or illness, turn to Privette Law Office. We have comprehensive knowledge of the applicable workers’ compensation rules and a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of injured workers. The sooner you contact our office, the sooner we can start working on your claim.

Privette Law Office helps workplace injury victims receive workers’ compensation across Southern Missouri including Howell County, Greene County, Wright County, and Butler County. We handle cases in cities such as Springfield, Poplar Bluff, West Plains, and Joplin all from our main office in Willow Springs.