The knee is one of the body’s most vulnerable joints. Because it undergoes so much force when we move, it is subject to serious injuries. One of the most common knee injuries is a torn meniscus. A meniscus tear can have a debilitating effect on your ability to work, putting considerable strain on your finances and your future.
If you got hurt on the job in Georgia, workers’ compensation benefits can pay for your medical care, offset a portion of your lost wages, and provide you with the safety net you deserve during this challenging time. However, the application process is not always straightforward. An experienced meniscus tear workers’ comp injury lawyer can help you avoid obstacles that might prevent you from getting timely payments.
What is a Meniscus Tear Injury?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that provides cushioning and shock absorption between the thighbone and shinbone. A forceful or sudden knee rotation can tear the meniscus, leading to persistent pain and limiting mobility. Common causes of meniscus tears at work include:
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Trip-and-fall accidents
- Lifting heavy objects
- Repetitive motions
- Kneeling
- Deep squatting
A torn meniscus typically takes up to 24 hours to develop pain and other symptoms. Common signs include:
- Pain when twisting or rotating the knee
- Swelling or stiffness
- Knee weakness
- A popping sensation
- Trouble straightening the leg
- Feeling like the knee cannot move
- Sense of instability or the knee giving out
Doctors diagnose a torn meniscus by examining the knee’s movement and using X-rays or MRIs to identify structural damage. While many cases may resolve with rest and rehabilitation, a torn meniscus can also be a serious knee injury requiring surgery.
Getting Compensation for Work-Related Meniscus Tear Injuries in Georgia
If you tore your meniscus at work, you may have the right to pursue financial benefits through a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation pays for:
- Reasonable and necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation for a torn meniscus, including surgery, doctor’s appointments, medical or orthopedic equipment, and physical therapy
- A portion of your lost wages if you cannot work or earn less in a part-time or light-duty position
- Disability benefits based on the type and severity of any long-term impairments
Getting workers’ compensation for a knee injury can be difficult. Because the knee joint sustains so much wear and tear throughout your lifetime, the insurance company may argue the meniscus tear was a pre-existing injury. Employees with pre-existing conditions can still receive workers’ comp, but they must prove that job-related activities aggravated the injury or worsened it.
How a Meniscus Tear Injury Lawyer Can Help with Your GA Workers’ Compensation Claim
The workers’ compensation attorneys at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., will vigorously pursue the settlement you need by:
- Investigating your claim and gathering evidence to show your injury is work-related
- Documenting your expenses so that we pursue maximum financial recovery for you
- Filing your claim and handling negotiations with your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer
- Evaluating other potential sources of compensation for your torn meniscus, such as a third-party personal injury claim
- Appealing a denied claim and representing you in hearings or court
Steps to Take After a Work-Related Meniscus Tear
You can preserve your rights to seek financial benefits by taking prompt action after suffering a meniscus tear at work. Here’s what you should do:
- Report your injury to your employer in writing within 30 days.
- Seek prompt medical attention to diagnose your injury and develop a treatment plan.
- Follow your doctor’s recovery instructions, including any medical restrictions on your work duties.
- Request copies of your medical records of your treatment and rehabilitation.
- Gather your pay stubs or income statements if you need to take time off work or transfer to a lower-paying role per your doctor’s orders.
- Keep any bills, invoices, or receipts for out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Finally, contact a meniscus injury attorney from the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., as soon as possible. Hiring experienced legal counsel can help you pursue the compensation you need to treat your knee injury and get back on your feet.
Why Choose the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C.?
For years, injured workers have turned to the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., for dedicated legal representation because:
- We put people first. Our team will take the time to sit down with you to discuss your injury, your medical treatment, and your problems or concerns about your situation. We will review your legal options, answer your questions, and explain your rights.
- Close communication is a priority. You can expect regular check-ins from your lawyer to verify that your needs are being met and provide updates on your claim. You will never have a problem reaching your attorney to ask questions about your worker’s compensation case.
- We don’t settle for less. Our attorneys will work closely with your doctors, vocational specialists, and other professionals to craft a compelling case to maximize your workers’ compensation torn meniscus workers comp settlement. We don’t let insurance companies get away with paying you less than you deserve.
- We have a proven record of success. Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in benefits and settlements for our clients. We strive to deliver the results you need to move forward with your life.
Our Workers’ Compensation Knee Injury Lawyers Are Ready to Help
If you suffered a work-related knee injury, getting workers’ compensation benefits can provide the support you need to recover without undue stress. Contact the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., for a free consultation with a meniscus tear workers’ comp injury lawyer today.
Site by