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If you’ve been hurt on the job in Las Vegas, you’re probably dealing with a lot right now. You might be in pain, worried about your health, and stressed about missing work and losing income. On top of all that, you’re faced with the daunting task of filing a workers’ compensation claim. It’s a lot to handle, especially when you’re trying to recover. A Las Vegas workers’ compensation lawyer can help.
Handling a workers’ comp claim on your own can be tricky, especially in a city like Las Vegas where the work landscape is so unique. There are lots of rules to follow and paperwork to fill out. Without an expert on your side, you could miss out on money you deserve. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and your employer might not have your best interests at heart. You need someone in your corner who knows the system and will fight for you.
Las Vegas is a unique city when it comes to work environments. From the glitzy casinos on the Strip to the bustling construction sites and warehouses, there are many opportunities for workplace injuries. Here are some situations that work injury lawyers in Las Vegas often see.
Back injuries are incredibly common in all types of jobs and can range from minor strains to serious disc problems. If you work in a casino, you might hurt your back lifting heavy trays or standing for long hours. Construction workers and warehouse employees are also at high risk for back injuries from lifting and moving heavy materials. Back injuries can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability if not treated properly.
In Las Vegas, with all our casinos, hotels, and restaurants, slip and fall accidents happen a lot. You might fall on stairs that aren’t lit properly, trip over a cable as you’re setting up for a concert, or slip on a wet surface in a hotel kitchen. These falls can lead to bruises, sprains, or even broken bones and head injuries.
If you do the same motion over and over at work, like dealing cards, typing at a front desk, or operating machinery in a warehouse, you might develop a repetitive stress injury. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a well-known example, but you could also develop tendonitis or bursitis. They often develop slowly over time, which can make it harder to prove they’re work-related without an attorney’s help.
Burns are a real risk in many Las Vegas jobs. If you work in a restaurant kitchen, you could get scalded by hot liquids or burned by hot surfaces. Hotel housekeepers might get chemical burns from cleaning products. Welders and other construction workers face the risk of burns from their equipment. Serious burns may need long-term treatment and could keep you out of work for a while.
Head injuries are serious, and they can happen in many Las Vegas workplaces. A falling object in a warehouse, a slip and fall in a casino, or an accident on a construction site could all lead to a head injury. Even a mild concussion can have lasting effects on your memory and thinking, while more severe head injuries might need long-term care and could change your life forever.
One type of injury that workers’ compensation lawyers in Las Vegas are familiar with might surprise you: Hearing loss. If you work in loud environments like construction sites, concert venues, or even busy casinos, you could be at risk for hearing damage. It’s important to use proper hearing protection, but if your employer doesn’t provide it or enforce its use, you could have a workers’ comp claim.
Las Vegas’s desert environment, combined with certain work conditions, can lead to respiratory issues. Construction workers might inhale dust and particles. Casino workers could be exposed to secondhand smoke. Hotel cleaning staff might breathe in harsh chemical fumes. Over time, these exposures can lead to respiratory problems like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
If you get hurt on the job in Las Vegas, there are some important steps you should take right away. A good workers’ comp lawyer in Las Vegas will tell you to follow these steps to help protect your health and your right to workers’ comp benefits.
You might be tempted to “tough it out” and keep working, especially if you’re in a customer-facing role like a casino dealer or server. But even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, might not show symptoms right away. Getting checked out creates a record of your injury, which is crucial for your workers’ comp claim. Plus, early treatment can help you recover faster.
Tell your boss about your injury as soon as you can. In Nevada, you have to report your injury within 7 days. If you wait too long, you might lose your right to benefits. Let your supervisor know what happened, when it happened, and how it happened. They should give you a form to fill out about your injury. If you won’t see your regular supervisor right away, report your injury to whoever is in charge at the time, then follow up with your regular supervisor.
If you can, take photos of where the accident happened and what caused it. In a busy casino or hotel, conditions can change quickly, so immediate documentation is crucial. Talk to anyone who saw what happened and get their contact info. If there are any security cameras in the area, make note of them so your attorney can request the footage later if needed.
You might be tempted to skip follow-up appointments or return to work early, especially if you rely on tips or commissions. But following your doctor’s orders gives you the best chance at a good recovery and a fair settlement. Go to all your appointments and follow any instructions for treatment or work restrictions. If you don’t, the insurance company might say you’re not really hurt or that you made your injury worse.
In Las Vegas, where many businesses are part of large corporations, you might feel overwhelmed dealing with their team of lawyers and insurance adjusters. Having your own attorney levels the playing field and ensures your rights are protected. They can guide you through the process, make sure you don’t miss any deadlines, and help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your claim. An attorney can also deal with the insurance company for you, so you can focus on getting better.
Choosing the right workers’ comp attorney in Las Vegas can make a big difference in your case. Here are some key things to look for.
Nevada’s workers’ comp laws can be complicated, and Las Vegas’ unique work environment adds another layer of complexity. Look for an attorney who knows these laws inside and out. They should have plenty of experience handling workers’ comp cases in Las Vegas specifically. Ask how many cases like yours they’ve handled and what kind of results they’ve gotten.
Your attorney should be able to explain complex legal concepts in a way you can understand. They should keep you updated on your case and return your calls or emails promptly. During your first meeting, pay attention to how well they listen to you and answer your questions.
Workers’ comp cases can be complicated and time-consuming. Make sure the attorney you choose has the staff and resources to give your case the attention it needs. They should be able to gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and work with medical experts if needed. A well-equipped law firm can build a stronger case for you.
At Blackburn Wirth, we’ve been helping injured workers in Las Vegas for years. We know the local laws and the local players, and our team of workers’ compensation attorneys in Las Vegas has the experience and know-how to handle even the toughest workers’ comp cases.
We’re not just lawyers – we’re your partners in getting the benefits you deserve. We’ll explain everything in plain English, keep you updated every step of the way, and fight hard for your rights. With us on your side, you can focus on getting better while we take care of the legal side. Fill out our online form or call 702-472-7000 to learn how we can help you with your workers’ comp claim.
Nevada law requires most employers to have workers’ comp insurance. If you’re hurt on the job, you can get benefits like medical treatment, lost wages, and disability payments. You don’t have to prove your employer was at fault, but you can’t sue your employer for more money. A good workers’ comp lawyer in Las Vegas can help you understand your rights under these laws.
It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as you’re hurt at work. If you have a serious injury that might keep you from working long-term, your claim is denied, your benefits are cut off, or you’re not getting the right medical care, that’s also a good time to call an attorney. Having a lawyer early can prevent mistakes and ensure you don’t miss out on benefits.
Workers’ comp settlements in Nevada are based on several factors, including your average monthly wage, how badly you’re hurt, and whether you can return to work. The settlement might cover future medical care and lost wages. In Las Vegas, where many workers receive tips or have fluctuating schedules, calculating your true wages can be complex. An experienced workers’ comp attorney in Las Vegas can help make sure you get a fair amount based on your actual earnings.