Why Seek Legal Help With The Missouri Second Injury Fund

If you already have disabilities and get injured on the job again, then traditional workers’ compensation may not be enough to cover all of your medical costs and payments needed for everyday living. In the state of Missouri, the government provides help through the Second Injury Fund.

The fund has gone through many changes over the years and features a lot of complications. Instead of missing out on the Second Injury Fund or not getting the maximum payment, learn some of the reasons to seek legal help and change your outlook altogether.

1. Forced Settlements & a Loss of Payment

If you accept a workers’ compensation settlement right away, then you could essentially dismiss yourself out of any potential funds provided by a Second Injury Fund. Before you make any decision regarding the fund, you should consult with a lawyer first.

Workers’ compensation lawyers understand the process needed to properly file for a Second Injury Fund and help you move forward with a claim. Without legal help, you could sign paperwork or accept payments much lower than you are entitled.

A lawyer will ensure you go through the proper channels and do not lose out on settlement options. Going through another injury is hard enough as it is. If you are unable to work, then the loss of extra income can make a big difference in your budget and household.

2. Other States & Locations

The Missouri Second Injury Fund has specific laws about work that have expanded to other states. A lawyer will understand your place of employment and can vouch for reasons why you should receive full compensation for the Second Injury Fund, even if your work took you on travel to another state.

For example, if you completed remote work in another state, but your state of employment was still in Missouri, the Second Injury Fund could apply in your case. A lawyer will understand the appeals process and prevent you from being denied compensation based on various location factors and loopholes.

3. Rehabilitation Compensation

Along with a general compensation payout, a big part of the Second Injury Fund includes rehabilitation compensation. The law indicates that someone approved for the Second Injury Fund can receive some funds for rehabilitation services. The rehabilitation could include physical therapy, rehabilitation equipment, and regular exercise routines.

The compensation can last for weeks, but will only apply if you use one of the state's approved facilities. The Division of Workers’ Compensation has certified a set list of facilities. You do not want to start rehab at another location and lose out on the opportunity to receive the funds and save on your medical costs.

A lawyer can help you file the claim for rehabilitation compensation and allow you to receive the full payout you deserve. As part of the process, the lawyer will need to submit paperwork and medical documents that support your case.

4. Suspension of Benefits

You do not want to receive lifetime benefits from a Second Injury Fund, only to have those benefits suspended and cut off. A lawyer will ensure benefits stay intact and follow all of the proper guidelines. A missed deadline or paperwork snafu could lead to major issues. You may not understand the legal terms in the compensation case and apply for something wrong.

In those cases, the Division of Workers’ Compensation could suspend your benefits and make a big difference in the amount of compensation you receive. With legal help, you can prevent a majority of these issues and help ensure you receive proper compensation.

Contact us at Spooner & Perkins, P.C., to consult with us about your injury case. If you were already disabled, then you may want to move forward with a claim through the Second Injury Fund so you can maximize your payments and ensure you have financial support.