Knee Injuries Attorneys in Wichita, Kansas

According to a recent analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data by the National Safety Council (NSC), there were 66,650 total reported knee injuries by workers in U.S. private industry in 2020. Knee injuries can occur at work due to a sudden accident, overexertion, twisting, or repetitive motion. Thankfully, Kansas laws allow employees who suffer work-related knee injuries or illnesses to seek compensation by filing a workers comp claim. 

At Slape & Howard, we provide highly-personalized legal counsel and skilled representation to employees in their workers compensation claims. Our experienced Kansas workers compensation attorneys can assess the situation and help file your workers comp claim. In addition, we will advocate for your best interests and help you recover the maximum available workers compensation benefits for your work-related knee injuries. Our firm proudly serves clients in Wichita and throughout all of Kansas. 

Common Knee Injuries at Work 

The knee remains one of the most complex and largest joints in the body. However, it is very susceptible to injuries. Here are some common knee injuries at work: 

• Anterior cruciate ligament injuries (ACL) 

• Fracture of the patella 

• Meniscus tears 

• Posterior cruciate ligament injuries 

• Cartilage tears 

• Fracture of the tibia or fibula 

• Tendon tears 

• Knee dislocation 

• Collateral ligament injuries 

• Sprains and strains 

• Osteoarthritis 

• Ligament sprains 

If you have sustained a work-related knee injury, you need to get in touch with a seasoned workers compensation attorney immediately. Your lawyer can ensure that you receive adequate medical treatment, assess the magnitude of your injuries, and help file your workers comp claims. 

Seeking Medical Attention & Filing a Claim 

Furthermore, ensure that you seek immediate medical attention after a work accident or knee injury. Getting prompt medical treatment is crucial for your health, well-being, and safety and to ensure proper documentation of your injuries. 

What's more, notify your employer or manager that you injured your knee. In serious cases such as ACL tears, meniscus tears, or kneecap fractures, you may require surgery. See a specialist if needed and take time to fully recover. 

In addition, document how the accident or knee injury occurred and the discomfort, pain, and immobility you're experiencing. Hire a skilled Kansas knee injury attorney to help file your workers comp claims and handle all discussions and negotiations with the insurance company. 

Settlements for Knee Injuries  

As mentioned earlier, employees who sustain work-related knee injuries may be eligible to seek workers compensation benefits. In Kansas, the workers compensation benefits will help cover medical bills, lost wages, and disability benefits. However, the value of your claims will depend on the severity of your injuries, your ability to work, and other surrounding circumstances. 

Essentially, employees with severe knee injuries will receive a higher compensation compared to someone with minor or mild wounds. Hence, ensure that you document your injuries and the medical treatments received. Your attorney will guide you through the claims process and attempt to recover the maximum possible compensation. 

Appealing a Decision  

However, if the insurer denies your workers compensation claim, you may be eligible to appeal the decision. Here are the steps to file an appeal for workers compensation denial in Kansas: 

• Retain an experienced attorney for proper guidance and to help file your appeal. 

• File an Application for Review and Modification within ten days of the denial. 

• Make several copies for safekeeping and fax your application to the Workers' Compensation Board. 

• Submit a written "brief" to the appeal board explaining your arguments. 

• The Workers' Compensation Board will review your appeal and decide whether to schedule a hearing. 

• If a hearing is scheduled, attend the hearing and present your arguments diligently and convincingly. 

A knowledgeable lawyer can help file your petition, prep you extensively for the hearing, and help you avoid any procedural mistakes that might hurt your appeal. 

Rely on an Experienced Workers Compensation Attorney 

Sustaining a work-related knee injury or illness can be a difficult and unsettling experience. Such an unfortunate incident can affect your mobility, ability to work, and finances. Thankfully, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation – such as medical expenses, disability benefits, and lost wages – by filing a workers comp claim. Therefore, hiring an experienced workers compensation attorney is crucial to protect your rights and help you recover your rightful benefits. 

At Slape & Howard, our attorneys have the resources and diligence to support and direct employees who are seeking workers compensation benefits for their work-related knee injuries. Using our in-depth legal understanding, we can walk you through the usually complicated procedures involved in filing claims and seeking benefits for workplace accidents. Above all, our legal team will fight for your rights and help you recover the workers comp benefits you're entitled to.