Work Injury Workmens Comp Lawyer

Have You Been Injured at Work?

At Palmer PC, our workers’ compensation attorneys approach every work injury case with a strategic and thorough process—carefully investigating the facts, applying Arizona workers’ comp laws, and collaborating with medical professionals to build a strong claim. We use expert witnesses when needed to help injured workers present the strongest case possible.

Work Injury

At Palmer Law Offices, we understand how physically, emotionally, and financially devastating a workplace injury can be. That’s why our experienced team of Arizona workers’ compensation lawyers fights to help injured workers secure the full range of benefits they are entitled to under state law—including medical care, wage replacement, permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation. If you’ve lost a loved one to a fatal job-related accident, our attorneys can also pursue death benefits to cover funeral expenses and provide long-term financial relief for dependents.

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system in Arizona, meaning you may be eligible for benefits even if the accident was partially your fault. These benefits may include medical treatment, physical therapy, prescription costs, lost wages, and, in some cases, compensation for permanent disability. Whether you are dealing with a temporary injury or a life-altering condition, we are here to help you recover the benefits you need to move forward.

With Palmer Law Offices by your side, you’ll have a trusted advocate throughout the claims process. Our attorneys document the details of your accident, coordinate with your medical providers, and prepare your case for hearing or appeal if needed. We also consult with medical and vocational experts to support your case when insurance companies dispute your claim. This comprehensive strategy ensures that every injured worker has a strong chance to present their case with confidence.

While every work injury claim is different, we bring the same tireless dedication to every client we represent. Our firm has handled a wide range of claims including spinal injuries, head trauma, repetitive motion injuries, electrocutions, toxic exposure, and fatal workplace accidents. Many of our new clients are referred to us by satisfied clients who trusted us with their futures after experiencing a workplace injury.

If you or a loved one has been injured on the job in Arizona, don’t wait. The law requires timely reporting of the injury and filing a claim with the Industrial Commission of Arizona. Missing deadlines can result in the loss of your right to benefits. Contact Palmer Law Offices today for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your health, your rights, and your future.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available for Injured Arizona Workers

Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide financial support and medical care to workers who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. The specific benefits available may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the individual circumstances of the case. However, here are some common types of workers’ compensation benefits:

  1. Medical Benefits: Injured workers are generally entitled to receive medical treatment related to their work-related injury or illness. This may include doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation services, and assistive devices. The cost of these medical expenses is typically covered by the workers’ compensation insurance.
  2. Disability Benefits: Disability benefits aim to compensate workers for their lost wages due to a work-related injury or illness. There are generally four types of disability benefits:
  3. Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If the worker is completely unable to work while recovering, they may receive TTD benefits, typically amounting to a percentage of their average wage.
  4. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If the worker can perform some work but at a reduced capacity or with lower wages during their recovery period, they may be eligible for TPD benefits, which provide partial wage replacement.
  5. Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If the worker’s injury or illness results in a permanent total disability, meaning they are unable to work in any capacity, they may receive PTD benefits, which provide ongoing compensation.
  6. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If the worker sustains a permanent partial disability that affects their ability to work but does not render them completely disabled, they may be entitled to PPD benefits, which provide compensation based on the extent of the impairment.
  7. Rehabilitation Services: Workers’ compensation may cover vocational rehabilitation services, such as job training, counseling, and assistance in finding suitable employment, for workers who are unable to return to their previous job due to their injury or illness.
  8. Death Benefits: In cases where a work-related injury or illness results in the death of a worker, workers’ compensation may provide benefits to the surviving dependents. These benefits typically include a portion of the worker’s wages and funeral expenses.

Key Features of Workers’ Compensation in Arizona

Workers’ compensation in Arizona is a system designed to provide benefits and protections to employees who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses. It is a type of insurance that employers are required to carry to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs incurred by employees due to work-related injuries or illnesses.

1. Coverage: Most employers in Arizona are required to provide workers’ compensation coverage for their employees. This includes both full-time and part-time workers, with a few exceptions such as independent contractors.

2. Benefits: Workers’ compensation benefits in Arizona typically cover medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospitalization, medication, and rehabilitation services. It also provides wage replacement benefits, including temporary total disability benefits, temporary partial disability benefits, permanent partial disability benefits, and permanent total disability benefits. In cases of work-related fatalities, death benefits may be provided to the dependents of the deceased worker.

3. No-Fault System: Arizona’s workers’ compensation system follows a “no-fault” principle, meaning that benefits are generally provided regardless of who was at fault for the injury or illness. In most cases, employees are eligible for benefits even if they contributed to their own injuries.

4. Time Limits: There are specific time limits for reporting work-related injuries or illnesses in Arizona. Generally, employees must report the injury to their employer within one year, and they have one year from the date of the injury or the date of the last authorized payment of compensation to file a claim with the Industrial Commission.

5. Dispute Resolution: Disputes regarding workers’ compensation claims may arise between employees, employers, and insurance companies. In Arizona, these disputes are typically resolved through the workers’ compensation administrative process, which may involve mediation, hearings, and appeals.

It’s important for both employers and employees to understand their rights and responsibilities under Arizona’s workers’ compensation system. For specific details and guidance regarding a particular situation, it is advisable to consult with an attorney or the Industrial Commission of Arizona.

What to Do if You Were Injured on the Job in Arizona

If you’ve been injured on the job, taking the right steps early on can make a significant difference in your ability to secure workers’ compensation benefits. Here’s what you should do to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately: Your health comes first. If it’s an emergency, call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room. Even if your injury seems minor, seek medical evaluation right away to ensure it’s properly documented and linked to your work activity. This documentation can be critical to your claim.

2. Report the Injury to Your Employer Promptly: Notify your employer as soon as possible—ideally in writing. Include the date, time, location, and details of how the injury occurred, along with any witnesses. Arizona law requires injuries to be reported within a specific timeframe, so don’t delay.

3. Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment or conditions that contributed to the incident. Keep a written record of how the injury occurred and your symptoms over time. These records can serve as key evidence if your claim is challenged.

4. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Arizona law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. To initiate a claim, you must submit the appropriate forms to the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA). An experienced attorney can help ensure your paperwork is accurate, timely, and complete.

5. Follow All Medical Instructions: Attend all medical appointments, follow your doctor’s treatment plan, and be honest about your symptoms and limitations. Failure to comply with medical recommendations can undermine your claim and delay your recovery.

6. Speak With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: The claims process can be complex and frustrating. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights, handle negotiations with insurers, and represent you in disputes or appeals if necessary.

7. Track All Expenses and Lost Wages: Keep detailed records of medical bills, prescriptions, travel costs for appointments, and any lost income due to your injury. These records help ensure you receive full compensation for your losses.

8. Know Your Rights: As an injured worker in Arizona, you have specific rights under the law. Learn about your eligibility for benefits, timelines for filing, and what to do if your claim is denied or delayed. If you’re unsure where you stand, an attorney can offer the clarity and advocacy you need.

Common Work-Related Injuries in Arizona

Falling objects:

In construction sites and warehouses, falling objects pose a significant risk. Workers can suffer head injuries, fractures, and other serious injuries if struck by falling tools, equipment, or materials.

Burns:

Workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and food service may be at risk of burns from hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical equipment.

Toxic exposure:

Some workers may be exposed to harmful substances such as chemicals, asbestos, or fumes, which can lead to respiratory problems, skin conditions, and long-term health issues.

Electrical accidents:

Electricians and workers in industries where electrical equipment is used are at risk of electrical shocks, burns, and electrocution if proper safety measures are not followed.

Workplace violence:

Although not exclusive to Arizona, incidents of workplace violence can occur across various industries, including healthcare, retail, and customer service sectors. Assaults or injuries resulting from altercations with coworkers, customers, or clients can happen.

Slip and fall injuries

Slip and fall accidents are common in many workplaces, including offices, retail stores, restaurants, and construction sites. These accidents can result in fractures, sprains, strains, and head injuries.

Overexertion injuries:

Overexertion injuries often occur in physically demanding jobs such as construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. These injuries can include muscle strains, back injuries, and joint problems.

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs):

Jobs that involve repetitive motions or prolonged periods of sitting or typing can lead to RSIs. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis are common examples of RSIs.

Machinery and equipment accidents:

In industries like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, workers can suffer injuries from machinery and equipment accidents. These accidents can cause amputations, crush injuries, and lacerations.

Vehicle accidents:

Workers who operate vehicles as part of their job, such as delivery drivers, truck drivers, and construction equipment operators, are at risk of vehicle accidents that can result in severe injuries.