Common knowledge of driving rules, such as being hit from behind or from another driver turning in front of you, can usually identify who is at fault in an auto accident. In some states, however, you may be eligible for compensation even if you were partially at fault in the accident.
Clients unfamiliar with the legal field may not know what to expect when they hire an attorney for the first time. Here are some tips about what you can expect from your lawyer while your workers' compensation case is pending.
Your attorney is not qualified to direct your medical treatment. He can however, refer you to a competent physician if you do not have a doctor. Comply with all treatment and keep all your doctors' appointments. Be sure to retain documentation of your medical treatment and expenses, such as doctor, hospital, and prescription bills.
If you receive notices from "vocational rehabilitation" companies, contact your attorney immediately. He may suggest that you make a serious effort to apply to jobs that have been suggested to you. In addition, retain complete documentation about each application, including a copy of the application itself, the date the application was received, times and dates of job interviews, and who you contacted at each employer.
Your attorney will likely not contact you unless there is something new to report. Since cases can be tied up in the courts for a year or more, don't expect that your case is going poorly because your attorney has not called you recently. Your lawyer will usually contact you the moment news about the case is available, and often the judge's decision will be mailed directly to your residence anyway.
Most workers' compensation cases proceed through the courts in the morning, while out-of-court testimony and client contacts are often made during the afternoons. Don't be alarmed if your attorney is unable to be contacted in the mornings, because (s)he is probably in court.
If your employer or another organization questions you about your case, refer all questions to your attorney. Attempting to answer questions yourself without a thourough knowledge of the law could hurt your case.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide advice for any specific case. I encourage you to contact me at 215-641-1192 to discuss your personal case for free.