A work injury in Eden Prairie can leave you confused and anxious about what comes next. Workers’ compensation benefits exist to support you financially and medically after a workplace injury, but the system can be complex. Seeking guidance from an Eden Prairie workers’ compensation lawyer can help ensure you understand your rights and smooth your path to the support you deserve.
At Arechigo & Stokka, we provide clarity and guidance when you need it most. As a dedicated two-attorney firm serving Minnesota for decades, we pride ourselves on offering compassionate and hands-on representation. We recognize the emotional and financial toll that an injury can bring, and we work quickly to answer questions and take action on your behalf.
What Benefits Are Available Through Workers’ Compensation?
The Minnesota workers’ compensation system provides several types of support to qualifying employees, such as:
- Medical expenses related to your treatment,
- Wage-loss compensation for time missed from work,
- Vocational rehabilitation services if you need to transition to a new job, and
- Disability benefits for permanent partial or total impairments.
Receiving these benefits depends on a properly filed and accepted claim. Errors or delays in the process can result in missed or reduced support.
The Minnesota workers’ compensation program typically groups recipients into the following categories when distributing benefits:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD). If your injury prevents you from working entirely, you may be eligible for TTD benefits. These payments typically replace a portion of your weekly wage while you recover. This also falls under short-term disability.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD). If you return to work but earn less than you did before the injury, TPD benefits may help cover a portion of the difference in wages.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD). If you suffer a permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity, PPD benefits compensate for the loss of bodily function.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD). If your injury prevents you from returning to any type of gainful employment, you may receive PTD benefits for an extended period, possibly even for life.
Each type of benefit has eligibility requirements and deadlines that must be met. Our team can help you understand what you may qualify for and assist in gathering the necessary documentation to support your claim.
Do I Need a Lawyer for Workers’ Compensation?
Not every claim requires legal intervention, but many do. If you are experiencing complications, it is wise to consult an Eden Prairie workers’ compensation lawyer.
Legal support is especially important when:
- Your claim has been denied or underpaid,
- You are urged to return to work before you are ready,
- You are scheduled for an independent medical examination (IME),
- Your injury may result in long-term disability, or
- A third party contributed to your workplace injury.
Even if your claim seems straightforward, speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney early in the process can help you avoid critical mistakes.
How Arechigo & Stokka Can Support You
When you hire us, we aim to remove the legal burden so you can focus on healing. We provide:
- Personal attention. From your first call to your case resolution, you work directly with an attorney.
- Prompt communication. We prioritize responding quickly to phone calls and emails.
- Customized legal strategies. We work to tailor our approach to your medical situation and personal goals.
- Skilled negotiation. We engage with insurance companies and other parties to help protect your rights.
- Comprehensive preparation. If litigation becomes necessary, we work to build a strong case to present at the hearing.
We have successfully helped countless injured workers throughout Minnesota navigate their claims and secure the benefits they deserve, and we’re ready to help you.
Questions to Ask Your Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Knowing what to ask during your initial consultation can help you choose the right representative. Consider these key questions when evaluating a lawyer:
- How long have you worked on workers’ compensation claims?
- Will I communicate with you directly?
- What should I expect throughout the legal process?
- How frequently will I receive case updates?
- What are my rights if my application is denied?
These questions to ask your workers’ compensation lawyer help ensure you understand your legal position and build trust with your attorney.
What to Do If My Claim Is Denied
A denied workers’ comp claim does not mean your case is over. You may still be eligible to challenge a denied claim. This can involve:
- Filing an appeal with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry,
- Appearing before a compensation judge, and
- Negotiating a fair settlement reflecting your medical and financial losses.
After a denial, it is crucial to review the reasons provided by the insurer. Common issues include insufficient medical documentation, late reporting of the injury, or disputes about whether the injury was work-related. Your attorney will work to carefully examine the denial letter and your claim file to help identify the best course of action.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Timing is critical in Minnesota workers’ compensation claims. Key deadlines exist for:
- Reporting your injury to your employer. You must inform your employer about your injury and intent to seek benefits within 14 days of the incident.
- Appealing a denied claim. You typically have three years from the date your employer files a First Report of Injury to file a workers’ compensation claim or six years from the date of the injury if the employer doesn’t file a report.
If you miss any of these deadlines, you could lose your right to benefits. That is why it is important to speak with an experienced Eden Prairie workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as you receive a denial. We can help you gather the necessary evidence, obtain supportive medical opinions, and file the proper paperwork to move your case forward with confidence.
What Sets Arechigo & Stokka Apart?
Choosing the right Eden Prairie workers’ compensation lawyer can make a significant difference in your outcome. At Arechigo & Stokka, we offer:
- Extensive experience. Since 2007, our attorneys have handled hundreds of workplace injury cases.
- Big results from a small firm. We combine personalized service with proven results.
- Client-focused strategies. Every legal move is designed around your recovery goals.
You are more than a case number. You are someone who deserves dignity, honesty, and dedicated advocacy.
Speak with an Eden Prairie Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
Acting quickly after an injury improves your chances of a successful claim. Delays in filing or responding to insurer actions can limit your benefits or jeopardize your eligibility.
Schedule a free consultation with a workers’ compensation attorney at Arechigo & Stokka. We are here to help listen to your concerns, explain your options, and develop a plan that fits your needs.
Call us today at (651) 222-6603 or fill out our online contact form to speak with an Eden Prairie workers’ compensation lawyer who understands Minnesota law and is ready to help you move forward.