In 2005, the Missouri Legislature made a comprehensive revision of Workers’ Compensation laws. The new law applies to cases where you were hurt on the job after August 28, 2005.
Employers maintain Workers’ Compensation Insurance to cover their employees who have been hurt while working on the job. This insurance pays benefits to employees who are unable to work because of their injuries as well as paying medical bills and other expenses until you recover.
The changes to the law that went into effect in 2005 benefit the employers not the workers. The biggest changes were made in the definition of “accident” and what constitutes permanent partial disability. Other changes involve giving your employer notice that you were hurt on the job, safety rules, and drugs and alcohol. These changes are designed to limit the access of the injured worker to Workers’ Compensation benefits.
If you get hurt on the job, you need to contact a lawyer. An experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer will provide the legal advice to help you get the benefits in which you are entitled. It is important to contact your lawyer immediately, usually within 30 days of your injury. Contact an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer to assist you in receiving all of the benefits in which you are entitled.
Feel free to contact Ted Pashos of the Niedner Law Firm if you should have any questions about this area.