Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Cheatham County
Helping Injured Workers Fight for Compensation
If you were injured at work and are concerned about your finances, the good news is that most employees in Tennessee can qualify for workers’ compensation. These benefits can not only help you pay your medical bills for a work-related injury, but they can also provide financial support during the time you are temporarily or permanently disabled.
Attorney Rhonda R. Crabtree knows that not everyone wants to deal with the workers’ compensation claim process on their own. That’s why she offers experienced legal support that can help injured workers receive the benefits they need to make ends meet. If an accident at work injured you, chances are you’re a good candidate for workers’ compensation. Rhonda R. Crabtree is a workers’ compensation lawyer in Cheatham County who can help with your claim, so don’t hesitate to reach out to her today.
Injured at work? Don't navigate the workers' compensation process alone. Contact us today at (615) 235-1564 for a free consultation!
Common Workplace Injuries and How They Qualify for Workers’ Compensation
Workplace injuries can happen in any industry. Here are some common types of injuries and how they qualify for workers’ compensation:
- Construction Accidents: Construction workers are at high risk for falls, equipment accidents, and being struck by objects. These injuries, like broken bones or head trauma, are typically covered under workers’ compensation.
- Healthcare Injuries: Nurses and healthcare workers often experience back strains, needle-stick injuries, or exposure to infectious diseases. These injuries are also compensable, as they occur while performing job-related tasks.
- Office Injuries: In an office setting, repetitive motion injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, or accidents like trips and falls, may qualify for compensation if the injury happened during work hours and on company property.
Each injury must occur while performing work-related tasks and within the scope of employment to qualify for workers' compensation benefits.
The Workers’ Compensation Claim Process in Tennessee
The workers' compensation process in Tennessee can feel overwhelming, but following these steps will help guide you:
- Report the Injury: As soon as you are injured, report it to your employer. This is required by law and ensures the claim starts in a timely manner.
- Seek Medical Attention: You must see a doctor approved by your employer's insurance company, or in some cases, you may choose your own healthcare provider.
- Complete the Necessary Forms: You’ll need to complete an injury report and other paperwork for your workers’ comp claim.
- Wait for the Decision: The insurance company will evaluate your claim. It may take several weeks to process the claim and decide whether or not you’ll receive benefits.
- Appeal If Necessary: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. A workers' compensation attorney can guide you through the appeals process.
What to Do Immediately After a Work Injury
Knowing what to do immediately after an injury can help protect your workers' compensation claim:
- Report the Injury: Tell your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Delaying this could hurt your chances of qualifying for benefits.
- Get Medical Help: Seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, some injuries can worsen over time. Getting treated early ensures your injury is documented.
- Document the Incident: Write down all the details of the injury—how it happened, where it happened, and any witnesses. This information can be vital for your claim.
- Follow Medical Advice: Follow the doctor’s treatment plan carefully. Missing appointments or not following medical advice can affect your workers’ comp benefits.
Taking these steps will help you get the medical treatment and compensation you deserve after a workplace injury.
OUR REVIEWS
SERVING CLIENTS SINCE 2002
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"A Great Experience"She helped me and saved me a lot of money.- Daniel M.
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"Fantastic!"Mrs. Crabtree has been absolutely wonderful. I couldn't ask for a better attorney.- Kristy A.
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"Great Attorney"She has been very available even when I needed immediate contact with her after hours.- Steve P.
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"She made the process for us very easy."She made the process for us very easy to understand and extremely affordable.- Leonard K.
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"Ethical Attorney"Fair, ethical, compassionate, and honest.- Katherine E.
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"She Really Cares"She is an excellent attorney who really cares about her clients.- Elizabeth M.
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"A Great Experience"I've never met a better attorney who knew how to take care of things!- Daniel B.
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"She is Phenomenal"She is a beast in the courtroom and the most kind-hearted human outside.- Former Client
Do I Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
In Tennessee, most employers who employ at least five full-time employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. Construction companies must carry this insurance if they have at least one employee, and any employer in the coal mining industry must have workers’ compensation insurance.
If your employer is required to have this insurance, then you’ve probably cleared the first hurdle toward receiving workers’ comp benefits—but the circumstances of your accident also matter. For example, you must have been injured at your employer’s worksite while performing duties within the scope of your employment. Your injury must also be a new injury, not a preexisting one. That said, the aggravation of a preexisting condition can qualify for workers’ compensation.
Remember: Fault is not a factor in eligibility for workers’ compensation. That means you are eligible for benefits as long as you meet all other criteria, and you don’t have to prove your employer was at fault for causing the accident. Likewise, you can receive benefits even if you are responsible for your injuries, although exceptions may apply if intoxication, roughhousing, or fighting led were a factor.
Need help with your claim? If you've been hurt at work, we're here to fight for your rights. Contact us at (615) 235-1564 to get started!
What Kinds of Workers’ Comp Benefits Are Available?
There is a variety of workers’ comp benefits available, and the types of compensation an injured employee can receive depend on the unique circumstances of their injuries.
Here’s a breakdown of some benefits you may qualify for:
- Medical Benefits: This compensation covers the cost of the medical treatment you received and may need in the future. A physician must determine the treatment is necessary, and benefits can continue until the physician determines you’ve reached “maximum medical improvement.” This is the doctor’s opinion that your condition has stabilized and isn’t expected to improve.
