After an accident at work, you’re likely dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty about your future. Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team of experienced workers’ compensation lawyers in Baton Rouge are here to help you understand your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.
Injured at Work in Baton Rouge?
If you or a loved one has been hurt on the job, our workers' compensation lawyers in Baton Rouge are committed to providing compassionate, effective legal representation to help you receive the maximum benefits available. We’ll be your Go2Lawyers and help you fight for what you’re rightfully owed!
Getting Help Is Fast & Easy
We strive to make getting the legal help you need as fast and easy as possible. One call or click is all it takes for our team to start reviewing your case today.
You're Entitled to Benefits
After suffering an injury or illness as a result of your job, you should be entitled to workers’ comp benefits under the law. Our attorneys are here to help you fight for everything you’re rightfully owed.
No Fee Unless We Win
We work on a contingency basis, which means it costs nothing to hire us and there are no fees unless we put money in your pocket!
Table of Contents
- Baton Rouge Workers’ Compensation Benefits
- How To File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Baton Rouge
- Do I Have a Workers’ Comp Case?
- Common Workplace Injuries
- What To Do After a Workplace Injury in Baton Rouge
- Baton Rouge Workers’ Comp FAQs
- How Our Baton Rouge Workers’ Comp Attorneys Can Help Your Claim
- Speak to a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Baton Rouge For Free
Baton Rouge Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation is a form of no-fault insurance that most employers in the state of Louisiana are required to carry. This insurance system is designed to help cover your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages while you recover after a workplace accident. Workers’ compensation benefits in Baton Rouge can include:
Medical benefits cover all necessary and reasonable medical expenses related to your workplace injury. This includes:
- Doctor Visits: Compensation for consultations, treatments, and follow-ups with physicians.
- Hospital Stays: Coverage for inpatient treatments, surgeries, and emergency room visits.
- Medications: Prescription drugs needed for your recovery.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services.
- Medical Equipment: Costs for necessary medical equipment such as crutches, wheelchairs, or braces.
Louisiana law ensures that you have the right to choose your own treating physician. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and maintain detailed records of all treatments received.
Disability benefits provide financial support if you are unable to work due to your injury. These benefits are categorized based on the severity and duration of your disability:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you are completely unable to work for a temporary period, you may receive TTD benefits, which are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If your injury prevents you from ever returning to any type of work, you may be eligible for PTD benefits.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If you can return to work but have a permanent impairment, you may receive PPD benefits, which compensate for the loss of earning capacity.
- Supplemental Earnings Benefits (SEB): If you can work but earn less due to your injury, SEB provides a percentage of the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages.
If a worker dies as a result of a workplace injury, their dependents may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits include:
- Funeral Expenses: Coverage for reasonable funeral and burial costs, up to a specified limit.
- Survivor Benefits: Financial support for the deceased worker’s dependents, such as a spouse, children, or other dependents. These benefits are calculated as a percentage of the deceased worker’s average weekly wage and are intended to help the family cope with the financial impact of their loss.
Our workers’ comp attorneys can help you secure the financial support you need after your accident so you can focus on your recovery. Don’t delay–reach out today for a free case review.
Our Results Speak for Themselves!
How To File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Baton Rouge
Filing a workers’ comp claim involves several steps:
- Report Your Injury: Notify your employer immediately after the injury occurs. Louisiana law requires you to report your injury within 30 days.
- Seek Medical Attention: Get medical treatment as soon as possible and inform the healthcare provider that your injury is work-related.
- File a Claim: Complete a workers’ compensation claim form (Form LWC-WC-1008) and submit it to the Louisiana Workforce Commission.
- Contact a Workers’ Comp Lawyer: If you are about to file a claim or appeal a denied claim, you need Gauthier Amedee. We offer free legal consultations to help you understand what steps to take next and get the most out of your claim.
Do I Have a Workers’ Comp Case?
Since workers’ compensation is a no-fault form of insurance, you do not have to prove that your employer or another employee was at fault for your accident in order to receive benefits. As long as your injury or illness occurred in the course of your normal work duties, you should be covered under the Louisiana workers’ comp system.
However, injured workers are often wrongfully denied the benefits they deserve, and navigating the legal process and dealing with insurance companies can be incredibly complicated. Our workers’ comp lawyers at Gauthier Amedee know the ins and outs of the system and are prepared to effectively guide you through the claims process so you can receive the benefits you deserve.
Common Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can occur in any job and vary widely in severity and type. Some of the most common include:
- Sprains and Strains: Often caused by lifting heavy objects or repetitive motions.
- Fractures: Resulting from slip and falls, or being struck by objects.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Common in jobs involving machinery or sharp tools.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Can result from the repetitive lifting of heavy objects or serious falls.
- Head Injuries: Range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Burns: Occurring in environments with exposure to heat, chemicals, or electricity
- Occupational Illnesses: Such as respiratory issues from inhaling hazardous substances.
If you’ve experienced any injury or illness as a result of your job, please don’t wait to contact us today. Your Go2Lawyers are ready to advocate for you while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
See What Our Clients Have To Say!
“The staff at Gautier and Amedee could not have been more helpful and pleasant to work with during this difficult time. They are always professional and caring.”
“Never once did I doubt the quality of service or the work put in by the amazing people at Gauthier Amedee. They treat you better than family and always go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable. Gauthier and Amedee all the way!!!”
–Skyler M.“Gauthier Amedee and associates were extremely professional and precise. A very special thanks to Thomas Klibert who walked me through every step throughout my process. He answered every question I had without hesitation. I never wondered what was going on with my case; the guidance was abundant. Thomas was very courteous, diligent and ambitious!!! I would highly recommend Gauthier Amedee!!! Thank you guys again!!!!
–Timeka B.“Best experience I have ever had with lawyers. Landon and miss Courtney work hard for you and they keep you informed. I will be recommending them to all my family and friends. Thanks for a job well done, Landon"
–Capt. Chris C.“Landon and his team are truly the best! Landon helped so much through my family’s accident. Very caring and professional team, couldn’t be more pleased.”
–Kaylee M.“Gauthier and Amedee are the best lawyers in Ascension Parish and the state of Louisiana. They treated us with the utmost respect and kept us informed through the whole process. If you want the best, this is the only place to go. My family thanks you very much for everything.”
–Brian H.“What a fantastic, easy, and stress free process the whole team made for me!! Jody Amedee represented me and TRULY what a blessing and pleasant experience he and the team made it. Would highly recommend for anything!! Lawyer for life!
–Hannah C.“They are the ultimate in legal representation. All of the staff members have your best interests in mind at all times. Jody Amedee helped me with my case. He just doesn't know the word quit! Everyone in the staff keeps you well informed every step of the way, showing true friendliness and professionalism. I would suggest Gauthier-Amedee to anyone. Just give them your case and relax!”
–Dan B.What To Do After a Workplace Injury in Baton Rouge
Experiencing a workplace injury can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately can ensure you receive the necessary care and compensation. Here’s what you need to do:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priorities.
- Report the Injury: Inform your supervisor or employer as soon as possible.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, medical treatments, and communications with your employer.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Follow the steps outlined above to ensure your claim is filed correctly.
- Consult an Attorney: Speak to an experienced workers’ comp lawyer, they can help you navigate the process and protect your rights.
Baton Rouge Workers’ Comp FAQs
The amount of money you can receive for a workers’ comp claim in Baton Rouge varies based on the specifics of your case, including:
- Type and Severity of Your Injury: More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation.
- Length of Recovery: Longer recovery periods can increase the amount of benefits you receive.
- Wages: Your average weekly wage prior to the injury affects your compensation amount.
In Louisiana, you can generally receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state. Additional benefits may be available for permanent disabilities or specific injuries.
To receive workers’ comp benefits, your injuries must have occurred during the course of your normal job duties. Whether your accident happened while you were running an errand for your boss, on a work trip, in one of your employer’s warehouses, or at the office, you should be covered as long as your injuries happened while you were working.
You must report your injury to your employer within 30 days.
In Louisiana, you have the right to choose your treating physician for your work-related injury.
Receiving a denied workers’ comp claim can be frustrating, but don’t lose hope. If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision by filing a Disputed Claim for Compensation (Form LWC-WC-1008) with the Louisiana Workforce Commission. It is also beneficial to have an experienced workers’ comp attorney on your side who can help you gather any necessary evidence to support your claim and ensure you have the best chance of getting the money you deserve.
In Louisiana, a workers’ compensation settlement is calculated based on several factors, including:
- Nature and Extent of Your Injury: The severity and permanency of your injury.
- Medical Expenses: Past and future medical costs related to your injury.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the wages you lost while unable to work.
- Disability Benefits: Payments for temporary or permanent disability.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Costs for training if you cannot return to your previous job.
The settlement aims to cover your medical expenses and lost wages, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injury.
No, Louisiana does not tax workers’ compensation benefits. According to federal and state laws, workers’ compensation benefits are not considered taxable income. This means you can receive your benefits without worrying about deductions for state or federal taxes, allowing you to use the full amount for your medical and living expenses.
Generally speaking, acceptance of workers’ compensation benefits means that you can’t sue your employer. There are very few cases in which you may be able to file a lawsuit against your employer if they have exhibited gross negligence in some way. This is a complex situation, so consult one of our knowledgeable workers’ comp lawyers at Gauthier Amedee for help.
Yes, you can still work after a workers’ compensation settlement. However, the type of settlement you receive may affect your ability to work. If you receive a lump-sum settlement, it may be designed to cover your lost wages and medical expenses, allowing you to return to work. However, if you have a permanent disability, your ability to work may be limited, and your settlement may reflect that. It’s essential to discuss your options with a workers’ compensation attorney to understand how your settlement impacts your employment prospects.
The Workers’ Compensation Act is a set of laws that govern workers’ compensation in Louisiana. It is designed to provide financial and medical benefits to employees who are injured on the job. Key provisions of the Act include:
- Employer Liability: Employers must provide workers’ compensation insurance or self-insure to cover workplace injuries.
- Employee Benefits: Injured workers are entitled to medical care, wage replacement, and disability benefits.
- Claims Process: The Act outlines the steps for filing and processing workers’ compensation claims.
- Dispute Resolution: Provides mechanisms for resolving disputes between employers and employees regarding benefits.
The Workers’ Compensation Act ensures that injured workers receive the support they need without having to prove employer negligence, creating a more straightforward path to obtaining benefits.
Put an Award-Winning Firm on Your Side!
If you’ve been hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault, never forget that you have rights. You deserve justice, and you deserve to be compensated for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, lost future earnings potential, and the emotional damage you’ve suffered. That’s why our team at Gauthier Amedee is here for you.
If you’re looking for a law firm that truly understands what you’re going through while bringing years of experience to the table, we are ready to help. We’ve seen too many people come through our doors who are suffering because someone else was irresponsible, and we’ve dedicated our lives to fighting for the justice they deserve. We are your Go2Lawyers. All it takes is a simple phone call — you don’t even have to leave your house! Just reach out to us and we’ll start your case review right away.
How Our Baton Rouge Workers’ Comp Attorneys Can Help Your Claim
Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can:
- Guide You Through the Process: We’ll help you understand your rights and the steps to take.
- File Your Claim: Ensure all paperwork is completed accurately and on time.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
- Represent You in Appeals: If your claim is denied, we’ll fight for your rights in hearings and appeals.
Meet Our Baton Rouge Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Speak to a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Baton Rouge For Free
If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t delay seeking the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer in Baton Rouge. Let us help you secure the benefits you need to recover and move forward with your life.