At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we are dedicated to supporting Helena-area workers who have been affected by job-related injuries or illnesses. Workers’ compensation is a state program designed to provide financial and medical support when your work leads to an injury or health condition. It can cover medical treatment, wage replacement, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, long-term disability benefits, helping you focus on recovery while maintaining some stability in your daily life.
As a Helena-based firm, we understand the challenges that workplace injuries can create for individuals in our community. Our team works closely with you to explain the workers’ compensation process. By staying connected to our community, we aim to provide support that is both practical and compassionate to Helena’s hard-working individuals. Contact our workers’ compensation attorneys at Wall, McLean & Gallagher today to start recovering the benefits that you have earned.
What Benefits Are Available Under Montana Law?
- Medical Treatment: Coverage for doctor visits, hospital care, surgeries, and other necessary medical services related to your injury or illness.
- Prescription Medications: Payment for medications prescribed as part of your recovery plan.
- Rehabilitation Services: Access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation programs to help you regain function.
- Wage Replacement: Compensation if you are unable to work due to your injury or illness, helping maintain financial stability.
- Long-Term or Permanent Disability Benefits: Support for workers who experience lasting effects that impact their ability to earn a living.
How the Workers’ Compensation System Works
Montana’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide support for employees who are injured or become ill due to their work. But getting started can sometimes be the hardest part. The system involves filing a claim with your employer and the state program, documenting your injury or illness, and following a process to determine the benefits you may be entitled to, including medical care and wage replacement. While the system exists to protect workers, navigating the paperwork, deadlines, and procedures can be difficult without guidance.
Common Types of Workplace Injuries We Handle
At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we assist Helena-area workers with a wide range of job-related injuries and illnesses. Workplace injuries can affect anyone, from those in physically demanding trades to employees exposed to hazardous materials, and each case requires careful attention to ensure the right benefits and protections.
Construction Accidents and Repetitive Stress Injuries
Construction work often involves heavy lifting, machinery, and repetitive motions, which can lead to serious accidents or chronic injuries over time. Repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel or tendonitis, can develop gradually but still affect your ability to work.
Occupational Illnesses and Chemical Exposure
Workers in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, or healthcare may be exposed to harmful chemicals or environmental hazards that can cause illness over time. Respiratory issues, skin conditions, or other occupational illnesses can significantly impact daily life and work. Our team helps you document these exposures and secure the workers’ compensation benefits necessary to take care of your health and recovery.
Back, Neck, and Joint Injuries from Physical Labor
Jobs that require lifting, bending, or repetitive physical activity often result in back, neck, or joint injuries. These injuries can make everyday tasks difficult and may require ongoing medical treatment or physical therapy.
What to Do After a Work-Related Injury in Helena
Taking the right steps early after a work-related injury can help you protect your workers’ compensation benefits from the very start. The following steps not only help your recovery but makes it easier to navigate the workers’ compensation system and get the benefits you deserve.
Report the Injury Promptly to Your Employer
Let your employer know as soon as possible what happened and when. In Montana, you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days of the incident. Reporting your injury quickly ensures it’s documented properly and helps start the workers’ compensation process on the right track. Clear communication not only shows your concern for safety but also makes it easier to move forward with your claim to your benefits.
Seek Medical Attention and Keep Documentation
Get medical care right away and follow your doctor’s instructions. Keep detailed notes, bills, and records of any treatments or medications. Documenting everything, including medical records, treatment notes, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and even receipts for related expenses like medications, travel to appointments, or supportive equipment, and how your injury affects your daily activities, will strengthen your claim and help you secure your benefits.
Know Your Deadlines and Rights
If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s crucial to know that Montana law protects your right to workers’ compensation, but only if you act within the required time limits. You have 12 months from the date of your injury or diagnosis to file your claim. If you weren’t aware of the injury or it developed over time, you may have up to 2 years to file. Understanding these deadlines and standing up for your rights ensures that the protections you’ve worked for don’t slip away.
What If Your Claim Was Denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, our team at Wall, McLean & Gallagher is here to help you explore every available option. Claims can be denied for reasons like missing documentation, disputed medical evidence, or questions about whether an injury or illness is work-related.
Our attorneys work closely with you to review the denial, gather the necessary medical records and evidence, and advocate on your behalf throughout the appeals process. Even after a denial, we help ensure you can still access the benefits you’ve earned.
Appealing a Denied Workers’ Compensation Claim
If your claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Taking action quickly with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to help you file everything on time and organized gives you the best chance at receiving your benefits as soon as possible.
The appeals process may include:
- Filing a formal appeal with the Montana Workers’ Compensation Court
- Submitting additional medical documentation or evidence
- Attending hearings or mediations to present your case
- Working with an experienced attorney to guide you through each step
Common Reasons Insurers Reject Claims
- Missing or incomplete medical records: Not having all your treatment details can make it harder to support your claim.
- Delays in reporting the injury: Waiting too long to tell your employer can cause questions about the claim.
- Questions about whether it’s work-related: Insurers may dispute whether your injury or illness was caused by your job.
- Disagreements over severity or lasting effects: There can be differing opinions on how serious or long-term your injury is.
- Paperwork or administrative errors: Mistakes on forms or missing information can lead to a denial.
Why Choose Wall, McLean & Gallagher?
When it comes to workers’ compensation in Helena, experience and local knowledge matter. Our attorneys bring decades of experience handling Montana workers’ compensation cases, giving you confidence that your personal injury claim is in skilled hands. Being based in Helena means we understand the local employers, insurers, and medical providers. This insight allows us to advocate effectively and navigate challenges specific to our community.
We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Win
Your recovery and rights are our priority. We work on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we help you secure the benefits you deserve. If you’ve been injured at work or your claim has been denied, contact Wall, McLean & Gallagher today to schedule a consultation and let our experienced, local team fight for the support you’ve earned.