Seaford Workers' Compensation Lawyers

Common Workplace Injuries & Accidents

Workplace injuries can happen in any industry, from construction and manufacturing to healthcare and office jobs. Some of the most common workplace accidents include:

• Slip and falls

• Repetitive motion injuries

• Machinery accidents

• Exposure to toxic substances

• Construction site accidents

These types of incidents can result in a range of workplace injuries, including broken bones, torn ligaments, head injuries, back injuries, and more. No matter how minor or severe your injury may seem, it’s important to seek legal representation to ensure you receive proper compensation.

Understanding the Delaware Workers’ Compensation System

Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill on the job. In Delaware, all employers with one or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages for injured workers.

In most cases, you will be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This means you can receive workers’ comp benefits even if your own actions contributed to the injury.

However, it’s essential to note that workers’ compensation laws and processes can be complex and confusing. That’s why having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is crucial. At Rhoades & Morrow, we will guide you through every step of the process, from filing a workers’ compensation claim to appealing a denial, if necessary.

Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Delaware

In order to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Delaware, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are an employee of a company that carries workers’ compensation insurance.

• Your injury or illness was caused by your job duties.

• You reported your injury or illness to your employer within 90 days of its occurrence.

• You filed a workers’ compensation claim within two years of the injury or illness.

If you meet these criteria, you should be eligible for benefits such as coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments. However, insurance companies may try to deny or limit your benefits. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney advocating for your rights.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Delaware

If you are injured on the job in Seaford, Delaware, you may be eligible for the following workers’ comp benefits:

• Medical benefits: This includes all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work-related injury. It also covers prescription medication, rehabilitation services, and travel expenses for medical appointments.

• Lost wages: If your injury prevents you from working for more than three days, you may be entitled to receive a portion of your lost wages. This includes both temporary and permanent disability benefits.

• Temporary total disability (TTD): If you are temporarily unable to work due to your injury, you may receive TTD benefits. These benefits are calculated at 66.667% of your average weekly wage and can continue for up to two years or until you reach maximum medical improvement.

• Permanent impairment benefits: If your injury results in a permanent impairment, you may be entitled to additional benefits based on the extent of your disability.

• Death benefits: In the unfortunate event of a worker’s death, their dependents may be eligible for death benefits, which include funeral expenses and ongoing financial support.

Workers’ Compensation Process in Delaware

1. Report the injury to your employer: As soon as possible, you must report your workplace injury or illness to your supervisor or employer. Failure to do so within 90 days of the accident can result in losing your right to receive workers’ compensation benefits.

2. Seek medical treatment: If your injury requires emergency care, seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, your employer may require you to see a specific doctor for non-emergency treatment.

3. File a workers’ comp claim: Your employer must report your injury or illness to their workers’ compensation insurance company within five days of being notified. If they fail to do so, you have the right to file a claim with the Delaware Industrial Accident Board.

4. Wait for approval: The insurance company has 21 days to investigate your claim and make a decision. If they approve your workers’ compensation claim, you should start receiving benefits within two weeks.

5. Appeal if denied: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision through the Delaware Office of Workers’ Compensation appeals process.

How We Can Help

Our team of experienced workers’ compensation attorneys has a track record of success in handling various types of workplace injury cases. We have helped numerous clients secure the benefits they need to cover medical costs, lost wages, and other related costs.

When you choose Rhoades & Morrow to represent you, we will:

• Investigate your case thoroughly: We will gather all the necessary evidence to support your valid workers’ compensation claim, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.

• Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf: We will handle all communication with the insurance company so that you can focus on your recovery.

• Negotiate for a fair settlement: Our goal is to get you the maximum compensation you are entitled to, and we will not hesitate to take your case to court if necessary.

• Advocate for your rights: We are committed to ensuring that all of our clients receive fair treatment throughout the workers’ compensation process. We will fight tirelessly for your best interests.

Do not go through the daunting process of workers’ compensation alone. Contact Rhoades & Morrow today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the benefits you deserve. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive legal support every step of the way.