- July 2, 2020
When we’re growing up, people told us that we would retire when we turn 65. You can ask your parents if that’s really the case. Most people can’t retire this young. They end up working well into their seventies. Even if they’re working part-time, they’re still working. Part of this is out of financial need. But a lot of people don’t want to sit home. They want to continue their career, even if it isn’t at full speed.
If someone is still working past the age of 65, they’re still entitled to the same protection as other employees. It wouldn’t be fair to say that people shouldn’t be allowed to file for workers’ compensation just because they’re a certain age. Yes, older people may be more likely to get hurt because they may have underlying medical conditions. The bottom line is that their employer carries workers’ comp insurance for this reason. If they get hurt while on the job, they’re entitled to the same benefits as everyone else.
If your workers’ comp claim has been denied, call an experienced injury lawyer in Atlanta. They can review your claim and, if they think it should be paid, they’ll reach out to the insurance company. They’ll also talk to your employer. They’ll let them know you have an attorney. They’ll also work hard to get your claim paid so you can start receiving benefits as soon as possible.
What Do You Need to Do to Protect Your Rights and Benefits in Atlanta?
If you’re over 65 and have gotten hurt while at work, you need to do a few things to preserve your rights. First, you need to make sure you report the accident to your manager or Human Resources director. You also need to make sure you fill out an accident or incident form. Even if your company policy doesn’t require this, you need to document your accident. If you don’t, there will be no way to prove what happened.
The next thing you need to do is get immediate medical treatment. Your employer will provide for this. They’ll have an ambulance take you to the emergency room. After that, you will have to be treated by a company-approved doctor. But your employer must give you a few different doctors to pick from. Finally, call and talk to a worker’s compensation lawyer in Atlanta, Georgia right away. They’ll make sure your claim is handled properly from day one.
Can Your Employer Deny Your Claim Because You’re Older?
Your employer and their insurance company cannot deny your workers’ comp claim because of your age. If you find out they did this, call a lawyer in Atlanta immediately. If they deny it for another reason and you suspect it’s due to your age, call our office. Your employer cannot discriminate against you because you’re older than 65. You have a right to the same benefits as your coworkers. If these benefits are denied to you, then you may have a claim for damages.
Your attorney will try to negotiate a payment of your claim. If this isn’t possible, they’ll file a lawsuit on your behalf. Your employer is going to have a team of lawyers working for them. You don’t want to be taken advantage of. Once the insurance company realizes you’ve retained an attorney, they’ll take you more seriously. They’ll also be less likely to try to take advantage of you.
Call a Seasoned Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Georgia As Soon as Possible
Some people think they should wait to call a worker’s comp lawyer until after their claim has been denied. And, while there isn’t anything wrong with this, it’s not the best idea. If your employer and the insurance company know you don’t have a lawyer, they may take advantage of you. Perhaps they’ll deny your claim. Or, they may try to get you to return to work before you’re ready. Your Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer won’t let this happen.
That’s why you should call right away and schedule your free initial consultation. Let one of our experienced workers’ comp lawyers review your case. If they feel your claim should have been approved, they’ll reach out to the insurance adjustor. They’ll file an appeal of your claim with the state if necessary. The initial consultation is free and it can put your mind at ease. And remember – you don’t pay anything until your claim is settled.
