Bardstown Work Injuries Lawyer
Experienced Representation for Workers Throughout Nelson County, KY
Workplace injuries can occur in any environment, from offices and construction sites to factories and retail settings. Many types of injuries can arise, including physical trauma like fractures, spinal cord injuries, and repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Exposure to harmful substances can lead to occupational illnesses, while stress and overexertion can cause conditions like heatstroke or heart issues.
At Haydon Blackmon, PLLC, our knowledgeable and skilled attorney can help you understand your legal options in pursuing compensation for work injuries. Whether through Kentucky workers’ compensation or through personal injury claims, our firm can devise a tailored strategy to fit your situation.
Attorney Haydon-Blackmon provides in-depth investigations into the circumstances of your accident or illness, collaborates with medical and other experts, and negotiates with insurers to vigorously pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Where required, she can represent you at hearings or in civil court.
Request a free case assessment with our Bardstown work injuries attorney at Haydon Blackmon, PLLC. Call (502) 490-2214 or reach us online to get started.
Common Work Injuries Requiring Compensation
Common work injuries can include:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Back injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Fractures and broken bones
- Burns
- Hearing loss
- Crush injuries
- Respiratory conditions
- Exposure to hazardous substances
- Eye injuries
Any injury or disease caused by the activities you engage in on the job may qualify for potential workers’ compensation benefits.
Understanding Workplace Injury Rights
Every employee should be aware of their rights regarding workplace injuries. It might be difficult to navigate the complexity of workers' compensation, but our committed staff is here to help.
If you were injured at work, here are some key rights every worker should know:
- Right to Medical Care: You have the right to get the right medical care for your injuries without having to pay for it out of pocket.
- Right to Compensation: You are entitled to compensation for any long-term disability, medical expenses, and lost wages if you are hurt at work.
- Protection Against Retaliation: Employers are prohibited from taking adverse action against workers who submit a workers' compensation claim.
- Right to Appeal: To make sure your rights are upheld in the event that your claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal the ruling and obtain legal counsel.
Everyone on our team is dedicated to providing you with the information and assistance you require. Make an appointment for your complimentary consultation with us to begin the process of obtaining the compensation you are entitled to.
Legal Recourse for Work Injuries in Bardstown, KY
As mentioned above, work injuries are typically addressed through workers’ compensation claims, which provide benefits like medical care and wage replacement regardless of fault. Your first step in this process is to notify your employer of your injury or occupational disease. Your employer then files your claim with their insurance company.
However, scenarios can occur where a personal injury claim may be applicable, such as in the following:
- Third-party negligence: If a work injury is caused by the negligence of a third party, such as a subcontractor, vendor, or someone else, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against that party or entity. For example, if a negligent driver caused an accident injuring you while driving a company vehicle as part of your job duties, you may be able to file a claim against them. This is separate from any workers’ compensation benefits received.
- Defective products: When an injury is caused by defective machinery or equipment used in the workplace, you may have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty product.
- Toxic substance exposure: If exposure to toxic substances like asbestos or chemicals at work leads to health issues, you may be able to file a toxic tort lawsuit against the manufacturer of the harmful substance, especially if the exposure results from negligence or inadequate warnings.
- Intentional harm: In cases where an employer or coworker intentionally causes damage, you can pursue a personal injury claim. This includes situations involving physical assault or other deliberate acts causing injury.
- Uninsured employer: If your employer fails to carry mandatory workers’ compensation insurance, you may bypass the typical workers’ compensation route and file a personal injury claim directly against the employer.
Benefits of Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Claims
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system providing benefits for medical expenses and lost wages but does not include pain and suffering. On the other hand, personal injury claims allow for compensation beyond what workers’ compensation offers, including damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, or punitive awards. However, you must prove the negligence or fault of the party and demonstrate how their actions directly caused your injuries.
For instance, if a third party’s negligence, such as a contractor’s unsafe equipment, contributes to your injury, you might pursue a personal injury claim alongside your workers’ compensation claim. Additionally, if your employer acted with gross negligence or intentionally caused harm, this could also open the door to a personal injury lawsuit.
Turn to a Proven Personal Injury Law Firm in Bardstown
At Haydon Blackmon, PLLC, we advocate for those who have suffered work-related injuries in and around Bardstown. With extensive experience in workers’ compensation and personal injury, we understand how to navigate the legal process to pursue fair compensation.
Understanding your rights in any given situation is crucial. We are here to evaluate your case, investigate it fully, and build a well-prepared claim that can be negotiated or litigated for maximum benefit.
Call (502) 490-2214 or reach us on our contact form to schedule an appointment to speak with our Bardstown work injuries attorney today.
