Virginia employers are required to maintain a safe workplace for employees, but accidents can still happen even when companies exercise due care. Work-related medical conditions also affect individuals across all industries and market sectors. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 75,000 nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses are reported in Virginia every year. Close to 40,000 of these cases involve time off, a job transfer, or work restrictions, creating additional losses beyond the physical pain and medical bills.

It may come as a relief to know that Virginia’s workers’ compensation system protects employees who sustain injuries or develop occupational diseases because of workplace conditions. A Roanoke workers’ compensation lawyer at the MichieHamlett Law Firm can guide you through the claims process, which is often more complex than expected. Please contact our seasoned personal injury attorneys today to schedule a complimentary consultation. A summary of the relevant laws may also be helpful.

Overview of Virginia Workers’ Comp Laws

The state system for workers’ comp is intended to support employees in recovering from their injuries and getting back to work as soon as possible. As such, you do not need to prove that your employer was at fault in causing your medical condition. Instead, you must show that:

  • You are eligible as an employee, as opposed to an independent contractor
  • You suffered injuries in a work-related accident or developed an occupational disease because of conditions in the workplace

To obtain benefits, employees file a claim with the employer’s workers’ comp insurer, since companies with two or more workers are required to procure a policy. You should note that filing a workers’ comp claim is your sole remedy in most situations, so you cannot pursue a civil lawsuit unless:

  • Your employer does not carry workers’ comp insurance
  • Intentional misconduct by your employer led to your injuries
  • A third party’s negligence was the cause of your work-related medical condition

Benefits Under Virginia’s Workers’ Comp System

State regulations provide that you can obtain several types of benefits in a successful workers’ comp claim. Our lawyers at the MichieHamlett Law Firm will ensure you receive all amounts allowed by law, whether we are dealing with an insurance company or taking the next steps to protect your rights. Your benefits may include:

  • Costs for medical treatment, both current expenses and those you may incur in the future
  • Wage replacement for the income you lose while you recover from your injuries
  • Total or partial disability, on a permanent or temporary basis
  • Death benefits, for the surviving family members of an employee who died because of a workplace accident or occupational disease

Consult with a Roanoke Workplace Injuries and Accidents Attorney Today

This overview of Virginia workers’ compensation laws may be helpful, but it is no substitute for retaining experienced legal representation to assist with your claim. For more information on your options, contact us at the MichieHamlett Law Firm. A Roanoke workers’ compensation lawyer from our team is prepared to guide you through the entire process, from filing your claim and dealing with insurance companies to hearings and administrative proceedings.