Factory work can be hazardous, with many potential risks for injury. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 4,764 fatal work injuries recorded in the United States in 2020, with over 340 of those occurring in the manufacturing sector. If you’ve been injured at a factory in Minnesota, it’s critical to understand your rights and the steps to take to file a workers’ compensation claim. A Minnesota work injury lawyer can guide you through the process and fight for the benefits you deserve.
At Mottaz & Sisk Injury and Work Compensation Lawyers, we have years of knowledge and industry experience. Call us at 763-421-8226 today for your free consultation.
Common Factory Injuries in Minnesota
Before diving into the claim filing process, it’s essential to recognize some of the most frequent injuries in factory settings. Machinery accidents are a leading cause of factory worker injuries. This can include injuries from forklifts, conveyor belts, presses, cutting machines, and other equipment. Overexertion injuries from repeated lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects are shared. Slip and fall accidents from wet, slippery, or cluttered floors frequently lead to injuries. Chemical burns, repetitive strain injuries, and falling object injuries are some of the top hazards factory workers face.
If you’ve suffered any type of injury while working at a factory job in Minnesota, the following steps can help ensure you receive the workers’ compensation benefits you’re entitled to:
Report Your Injury to Your Employer
The first critical step after a work injury is notifying your employer. In Minnesota, in writing, you must report your injury to your employer within 14 days of the accident or when you knew or should have known you were injured at work. Include details of how, when, and where the injury occurred. Failing to provide timely notice could jeopardize your workers’ comp claim, so don’t delay this important step. A work injury attorney in Minnesota can help ensure your injury is reported correctly.
Seek Medical Treatment
Your health should be the top priority after any work injury. Get medical care right away, even if your injuries initially seem minor. Tell the doctor your injury is work-related. Your employer may require you to see a specific doctor or select from an approved list for your initial visit. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments. Proper medical documentation of your injuries is essential evidence for your worker’s comp lawyer in Minnesota.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
You’ll need to file several forms to start your workers’ comp benefits claim. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) handles workers’ compensation claims. You must submit a Worker’s Compensation First Report of Injury form and an Employee’s Claim Petition form. There are strict deadlines associated with these filings. Generally, you have up to three years from your injury date to file, but it’s best to do so as soon as possible. An experienced work injury lawyer in Minnesota can ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintaining thorough records is key Throughout the workers’ comp process. Keep copies of all completed forms, medical records, correspondence with your employer and their insurer, and documentation of your expenses and lost wages. Detailed notes on your injury, recovery, and how it has impacted your life can also be valuable evidence to support your claim. Your work injury attorney in Minnesota can help you gather and organize this critical documentation.
Consider Hiring a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Navigating the workers’ comp system can be complex, especially when dealing with a severe work injury. Employers and insurers may try to minimize or deny valid claims. Hiring an experienced Minnesota work injury lawyer levels the playing field and relieves the burden of handling legal issues independently. A skilled workers’ compensation lawyer understands the nuances of the law, the tactics insurers may use, and how to build the most robust case for maximum benefits. Look for a workers comp attorney who offers free consultations and works on contingency, meaning they only get paid if they recover your benefits.
FAQs on Minnesota Factory Work Injury Claims
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What benefits can I receive from a successful Minnesota work injury lawyer claim?
Workers’ compensation benefits in Minnesota can include coverage of medical expenses, wage loss benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and compensation for permanent disability. Death benefits are also available to families who lose a loved one to a work-related injury—the specific benefits you may be entitled to depend on the nature and severity of your injuries.
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How long must I file a workers’ comp claim with a work injury attorney in Minnesota?
In most cases, Minnesota law allows injured workers up to three years from the date of injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, notifying your employer and starting the claim process immediately after an injury is always recommended. Delays in reporting or filing could be used against you by the insurance company.
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Can I choose my doctor to treat my work injury in Minnesota?
After the initial medical visit, which may need to be with an employer-selected provider, you can choose your own treating physician in Minnesota. If you’re unsatisfied with the doctor, your employer requires you to see them first and notify your employer and the workers’ comp insurer that you intend to change doctors. Your work injury lawyer in Minnesota can assist with this process.
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What if my employer denies my worker’s compensation lawyer claim?
Unfortunately, employer and insurer denials of legitimate workers’ comp claims are not uncommon. If this happens in your case, you have the right to appeal the denial. The Minnesota workers’ comp system has a dispute resolution process that may involve mediation or an administrative hearing. Having a workers comp attorney in your corner improves your odds of a successful appeal.
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How much does it cost to hire a Minnesota work injury lawyer?
Most workers’ compensation attorneys in Minnesota work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only collect a fee if they help you obtain benefits. The fee is typically a percentage of your recovery. Additionally, initial consultations are usually free, advising your claim without any upfront cost. Be sure to ask about fee structures when seeking an attorney near me.
Get the Help You Need From a Minnesota Work Injury Lawyer
Suffering a severe injury at your factory job is physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming. The Minnesota workers’ compensation system is meant to be a safety net, but the claims process can be daunting, especially when trying to recover from an injury. Don’t go it alone – an experienced Minnesota work injury lawyer can be your advocate and guide.
With their knowledge of the law and the tactics insurers use to avoid paying claims, a skilled work injury Minnesota lawyer can fight for the full benefits you deserve. Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law has 20+ years of experience dealing with work injury matters. Please call us at 763-421-8226 for a free consultation if you have experienced a work injury.