Millions of people suffer work-related injuries or illnesses that might lead to many filing worker's compensation insurance claims. According to the National Safety Council, about 4.6 million people obtain medical treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses every year. Many people suffering work-related injuries or illnesses experience problems, such as a denied worker's compensation claim. Here's how an experienced personal injury lawyer might help.

Challenge Denied Claims When Possible

When you suffer an injury or an illness caused by work conditions or an accident while working, you should be able to file a worker's compensation claim that pays for your medical costs and lost wages. If you are injured while on the job, you should notify a manager or supervisor as soon as possible and get treatment from an approved service provider. You also should seek treatment and notify your supervisor if you are ill due to work conditions. If your workplace refuses to file the worker's compensation claim or the insurer denies it, a personal injury attorney can help you challenge the denial and possibly force them to cover your claim.

Build Evidence of a Work-Related Injury or Illness

A personal injury lawyer could help gather evidence supporting a worker's compensation claim. You need to show your injury or illness most likely was caused by your job, which a medical diagnosis can help affirm. An attorney can depose witnesses who might confirm your injury or illness was work-related and has affected your ability to work or go about your normal daily routine. Any photos or video evidence of an accident scene that shows a dangerous condition that existed also might help show an injury or illness most likely occurred due to your job and work conditions.

Identify Third-Party Offenders

Even if your worker's compensation claim is approved, it's possible that one or more parties other than your employer might be liable for your injury or illness. A vendor might accidentally run into you with a pallet jack or a heavily laden cart. A contractor might have left a dangerous condition, such as an exposed electrical wire that causes an electrical shock injury. When you accept worker's compensation coverage, you still have the right to hold third-party offenders accountable.

If your valid worker's compensation claim is denied, you can contact us to schedule a consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer at our law firm to learn how an attorney might help with your job-related injury. Our team at Georgia Injury Attorneys has 20 years of experience and is here to help you. We are available by phone or email, and we look forward to hearing from you.