Category: Workers’ Compensation

29 Nov by Steve M. Christensen

Experienced South Dakota Workers’ Compensation Attorney

When you have been hurt at work, you need a lawyer who is compassionate and understanding, but who will aggressively and methodically pursue justice on your behalf.

South Dakota's workers' compensation laws are complex, and there is a rigid procedure that must be followed in order to get maximum compensation for your financial losses after a workplace injury. You need an experienced workers' compensation attorney who will help you navigate the workers' comp system quickly and get your claim approved.

At the Christensen Law Offices, we have over 35 years of experience representing injured workers in Western South Dakota and the Black Hills. We understand the South Dakota workers' compensation laws and can help you recover the money you need to take care of yourself and your family.

Workers' Compensation Versus Personal Injury Lawsuits The South Dakota workers' compensation laws treat a workplace injury differently than other types of personal injury. If you have been injured at work, the only way to recover money for your losses is by making a workers' compensation claim. Furthermore, the workers' compensation law identifies the amount you will receive, based on the specific type of injury.

As an example, temporary disability cases are treated differently than permanent disability cases under the workers' compensation system. In general, there is less room to maneuver and negotiate in a workers' compensation case than there may be in a personal injury case based on a non-workplace injury.

The South Dakota Workers' Compensation Process: Why a Lawyer Is Important Don't make the mistake of thinking that your injuries are obvious and that all you need to do is fill out a form to recover for your workplace injury. The process for filing a workers' compensation claim is complex and can be confusing. Your claim can be challenged on many grounds. Your employer may argue that the injury was not work-related or that you had the medical condition before you started your employment. Or, your workers' compensation claim may be approved, but with work restrictions that make it hard to get hired anywhere else.

When you have been injured on the job, you may feel frightened and frustrated. You want to go back to work, but fear you may never be able to go back. You worry that you may lose your job or be reassigned when you return. We understand your concerns.

At the Christensen Law Offices, our entire staff is committed to easing your anxiety and providing a safe place where you know your interests are being protected. We want to help you make good decisions based on practical information and an understanding of the consequences of different options.