If you are injured on the job, you need to check in with your human resources department about filing for worker's compensation benefits. The process of getting benefits through your employer for your injuries is typically a very smooth and straightforward process. However, there may be some instances in which it can get complicated. If this happens, you will have to escalate your claim. The question then turns to whether or not you should retain an attorney for this process. The following are some things to consider:

Representing Yourself

Under normal circumstances, you should have no issue representing yourself during a worker's compensation appeal. There could have been a small oversight that caused a delay in your benefits, such as improperly completed paperwork or not providing all of your medical records.

If you had a relatively minor injury that is not life threatening or will result in a permanent disability, you should also feel confident in handling your case yourself. A sprained wrist or an eye infection are seemingly minor injuries that can often be handled very quickly.

Getting an Attorney

While the process is designed to be relatively simple, there are some times when an attorney's assistance is warranted. If you have a very severe injury that will result in your permanent disability, having an attorney go over your case is advisable. You want to ensure that you are able to get as much as you are entitled to since your workplace was the cause of your disability. If you are seeking lifetime benefits, an attorney is the best way to go.

Your employer may try to deny your worker's compensation claim. An attorney, like one from Gerald Lutkenhaus, may be helpful in this type of situation. He or she will help gather your evidence and build a strong case for you to ultimately receive your benefits.

If your benefits are not going to be enough to cover your medical bills and lost wages or if you lose your position while you are away, an attorney is going to be essential. The law provides that your employer may not terminate you while you are out on a work-related injury. If this happens, you could have a strong legal case.

You can also retain an attorney from the start just for your own peace of mine. If you are too ill or hurt to deal with anything dealing with paperwork or appeals, you can have your attorney do all of the leg work for you.