Workers' Compensation

Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Springfield, MA

Helping Injured Workers Across Hampden County, MA

Workers' compensation coverage provides financial and medical benefits to Massachusetts workers who are injured on the job or develop a job-related illness. It benefits both employees and employers. Employers are protected from liability for workplace injuries while employees can file claims for medical care and partial wage replacement when unable to work.

If you are an employee, a work-related injury or illness can be painful, frustrating, and scary. Most likely, you will need payment to cover your medical bills and the compensation for your lost time at work. At Libbos Law, we are here to protect your rights, help you obtain immediate benefits, and ensure you gain access to ongoing medical care. We will also ensure that your employer is held accountable if he or she retaliates against you for making a workers’ compensation claim.

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Common Workplace Injuries in Massachusetts

Workplace injuries can occur in any industry, but certain types are more common in specific fields. Recognizing these common injuries can help workers understand their rights and take the necessary steps to protect themselves. Below are some of the most frequent workplace injuries in Massachusetts:

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Causes: Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways.
Injuries: Sprains, fractures, concussions, and back injuries.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

Causes: Repeating the same task or motion over time, such as typing, assembly line work, or heavy lifting.
Injuries: Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and joint pain.

Back and Spine Injuries

Causes: Lifting heavy objects, improper ergonomics, or sudden movements.
Injuries: Herniated discs, muscle strains, and spinal cord injuries.

Burns and Scalds

Causes: Exposure to hot surfaces, chemicals, or steam. Common in kitchens, factories, and chemical plants.
Injuries: First, second, or third-degree burns, often requiring long-term medical care.

Head Injuries

Causes: Falling objects, machinery accidents, or slips in construction zones.
Injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.

Hearing Loss

Causes: Long-term exposure to loud noises, especially in factories, construction sites, and warehouses.
Injuries: Partial or complete hearing loss that may affect workers’ quality of life.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury

If you’re injured at work, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your health and your workers' compensation claim:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if your injury seems minor, get checked by a healthcare provider. Some injuries may worsen over time.
Report the Injury to Your Employer
Notify your employer as soon as possible, ideally in writing, to create a record of the incident.
File Your Workers' Compensation Claim
Fill out the necessary forms and submit them promptly. Missing deadlines could jeopardize your benefits.
Keep Detailed Records
Track your medical visits, treatments, and any communication with your employer or insurance company. This documentation can support your claim.
Consult an Attorney
A workers' compensation lawyer can guide you through the claims process and help if your claim is delayed or denied.

What to Do If Your Workers' Compensation Claim Is Denied

Claim denials are unfortunately common, but you don’t have to accept them. Here’s what you can do if your workers’ compensation claim is denied:

Review the Denial Letter
Understand the reasons for the denial. It could be due to missing information or errors in your paperwork.
Consult an Attorney
A workers’ compensation lawyer can help identify the cause of the denial and advise on the best course of action.
File an Appeal
In Massachusetts, you can appeal the denial through the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA).
Attend a Hearing
If necessary, a hearing will be scheduled where an administrative judge will make a final decision on your claim.

By following these steps, you can improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. Don’t let a denial stop you—legal help is available to guide you through the process.

Contact Libbos Law to schedule a free initial consultation with a Springfield workers’ compensation attorney at (413) 376-7007 or through our online request form.

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How Libbos Law Can Assist You

We have lawyers experienced in handling industrial and construction accidents as well as office, retail, warehouse, and other workplace mishaps.

If you have had an on-the-job injury and will be, or have been, out of work for a year or more, then you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. If so, we can help you.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Massachusetts

Workers’ compensation provides the following benefits:

Wage loss benefits for partial or total disability
Medical expenses
Vocational retraining costs
Death benefits and funeral costs

These benefits are administered under the Department of Industrial Accidents in Massachusetts. This agency also handles any disputes between employees and their employers when claims are denied. Workers’ compensation law is a complex area and, if your claim is denied, the Department of Industrial Accident advises workers to seek legal representation.

How Long Can You Be on Workers Comp in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, temporary benefits usually last up to 156 weeks for total incapacity and 260 weeks for partial incapacity. Permanent benefits last until your complete disability ends. Compensation begins on the 6th day of disability, and you won't be paid for the first five days unless you can't work for 21 calendar days or more. The days don't have to be consecutive.

Let Us Put Our Decades of Experience to Work for You

Workers’ comp claims can stem from all types of accidents as well as illnesses caused by one’s job in the work environment. These can include but are not limited to:

Construction accidents
Heavy machinery accidents
Lifting injuries
Exposure to toxic chemicals
Repetitive stress injuries
Traffic accidents
Burns

The type of benefits for which you may be eligible will depend on the full extent of your injuries. These can range from partial disability benefits for those who can do some type of limited work to total disability benefits for those who can no longer perform any type of work. Generally, you will receive 60 percent of your average weekly wage. Workers’ comp benefits do not, however, provide for pain and suffering and other non-economic losses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about workers’ compensation in Massachusetts and how it works:

What is workers’ compensation, and who is eligible?
Workers' compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. All employees in Massachusetts are eligible, as long as they are injured while performing tasks related to their job.
How long does it take to receive workers’ compensation benefits?
After filing a claim, you typically begin receiving temporary benefits within 14-30 days. However, if your claim is contested or complicated, it could take longer. Immediate medical benefits should be available as soon as your claim is approved.
Can I receive workers’ compensation benefits if I am partially disabled?
Yes. Massachusetts offers partial disability benefits if you are still able to work but can’t perform the same job or hours you did before the injury. You’ll receive a percentage of your lost wages, usually around 60%.
What if my workers' compensation claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, don’t worry. You can appeal the decision. First, review the denial letter to understand the reason for the rejection. Then, consult an attorney who can help you navigate the appeal process through the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) in Massachusetts.
Can I sue my employer for a workplace injury in Massachusetts?
In most cases, you cannot sue your employer for a workplace injury if they are enrolled in workers' compensation insurance. Workers' compensation is designed to protect both parties. However, you can file a lawsuit against third parties (e.g., a contractor, manufacturer, or vendor) responsible for the injury.
How does workers’ compensation affect my Social Security Disability benefits?
If you are out of work due to a serious injury for an extended period and qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD), you may be eligible for both workers' compensation and SSD benefits. However, these two benefits can sometimes offset each other, and it’s important to work with an attorney to navigate this complex situation.