Minnesota Lawyers Helping Injured Workers Receive Fair Compensation

After a workplace accident, many people are forced off the job. No work usually means no paycheck. However, when injuries are the result of a workplace accident or were caused by years of job-related wear and tear on the body, workers’ compensation benefits are available.

At Reitan Law Office, PLLC, we have been helping injured Minnesota workers navigate the workers’ compensation system for more than 40 years. Our attorneys have one goal: getting you the workers’ compensation benefits you need to pay your bills, treat your injuries and continue supporting your family.

Our offices are conveniently located throughout the Twin Cities and Southern Minnesota in Chaska, Mankato and Minneapolis. We serve clients statewide and use technology to minimize travel and inconvenience for our clients.

Get The Workers’ Compensation You Deserve

If your injury occurred in the course and scope of your work, you are entitled to workers’ compensation. Benefits include:

• Lost wages: Wage replacement benefits can pay up to two-thirds of your weekly wage while you are unable to work.
• Medical treatment: Dealing with medical bills after a work injury can be stressful. We will help you get the benefits you need to heal.
• Vocational rehabilitation: When it is time to return to work, benefits may be available for job retraining or other rehabilitation.
• Compensation for permanent impairment: Permanent partial disability benefits can provide support for workers who have been permanently injured.

Unfortunately, valid workers’ compensation claims are regularly denied. If you are having trouble getting the benefits you need after a workplace injury, you have rights and options to pursue what you deserve. If you have recently been injured on the job or have had benefits denied under an existing claim, it is wise to seek experienced help. At Reitan Law Office, PLLC, we handle workers’ compensation claims at every stage – from the initial injury through any negotiations, hearings or appeals.

Our attorneys have helped clients obtain workers’ compensation benefits for a wide range of injuries, including everything from back and neck injuries to repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel, and injuries from occupational exposure to toxic chemicals.

When Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Gets Denied

Insurance companies deny valid workers’ compensation claims every day. A denial doesn’t mean your case lacks merit. It can mean that the insurer wants to avoid paying benefits you deserve. Many denials get overturned when injured workers take prompt action with legal support. Claims face denial for several reasons:

• Missed reporting deadlines: Employers must receive notice within a specific time frame.
• Disputed injury origins: Insurers may argue your injury didn’t happen at work.
• Preexisting conditions: Companies often claim your injury existed before employment.
• Insufficient documentation: Gaps in medical records can weaken your claim.

If you receive a denial letter, read it carefully to understand the stated reasons. Contact Reitan Law Office, PLLC, immediately because Minnesota law imposes strict deadlines for appeals. Minnesota’s appeals process includes administrative conferences and formal hearings before a compensation judge.

Our attorneys gather additional evidence, interview witnesses and present compelling arguments to overturn wrongful denials. With over 100 years of combined experience, we understand how to build strong appeals that secure the full benefits you need.

What Are The Most Common On-The-Job Injuries?

Some of the most frequently reported workplace injuries include:

• Back injuries: Often caused by lifting heavy objects, poor posture or repetitive strain, back injuries can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.
• Shoulder and knee injuries: These joint injuries frequently occur from repetitive movements, falls or overexertion, usually requiring extensive rehabilitation.
• Head injuries: From minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries, head trauma can happen after a fall, collision or impact with equipment.
• Repetitive motion injuries: Tasks like typing, scanning or using tools can cause carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis over time.
• Burns: Workers exposed to heat, chemicals or electricity face the risk of severe burns, sometimes leaving permanent scarring.
• Cuts and lacerations: Sharp tools, machinery or broken glass often cause these injuries, ranging from minor cuts to deep wounds requiring surgery.
• Amputation: Serious machinery accidents can result in the loss of fingers, hands or limbs, often changing a worker’s life permanently.
• Hearing and vision loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noise or hazardous substances can cause gradual sensory damage.
• Psychological injuries: Stress, harassment or traumatic incidents can result in anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.

No worker should have to handle these injuries alone. Our workplace injury lawyers can help ensure access to medical care, fair compensation and legal protection throughout the recovery process.

What Accidents Commonly Cause Workplace Injuries?

Whether due to human error, unsafe conditions or employer negligence, workplace incidents can disrupt lives and livelihoods. Common types of workplace accidents include:

• Overexertion injuries: Caused by lifting, pushing or pulling heavy objects, these accidents can lead to muscle strains and back problems.
• Slips, trips and falls: Wet floors, uneven surfaces or cluttered work areas can result in sprains, fractures or head injuries.
• Vehicle accidents: Workers who drive as part of their job risk collisions, rollovers or crashes caused by fatigue or unsafe conditions.
• Machinery accidents: Faulty equipment, lack of training or missing safety guards can lead to crushing injuries or amputations.
• Toxic exposure: Inhaling or contacting hazardous chemicals can cause respiratory illness, burns or long-term health complications.
• Workplace violence: Physical altercations or assaults between employees can cause both physical and emotional trauma.

Every workplace should be a safe environment, but when employers fail to meet safety standards, workers pay the price. Victims of job-related accidents can speak with our workers’ compensation attorney to protect their rights and pursue the benefits they deserve.

What To Do If You’ve Been Injured At Work

Taking the right steps immediately after a workplace injury can protect both your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

• Tell your employer: He or she will start the necessary paperwork to get your workers’ compensation claim started.
• Seek medical attention: Your health is the most important thing. In addition to supporting your physical recovery, seeking and documenting medical treatment can strengthen your chances for financial compensation.
• Document everything: Keep records of the accident, including photos of the scene if possible, names of witnesses and all expenses related to your injury. This documentation can be critical if your claim is disputed.
• Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer: If your wage loss or medical benefits are denied, hiring an experienced attorney is the best way to ensure you get the benefits you are entitled to receive.

Following these steps promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your workers’ compensation claim and help ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to under Minnesota law.

Visit our workers’ compensation information page to learn about basic workers’ compensation rules or see our tips page for guidance on your claim.

How Long Do You Have To Report A Work Injury In Minnesota?

Minnesota law requires you to notify your employer within 14 days of your injury or when you reasonably should have known your condition was work-related. There are additional rules that may extend this. The injury can be reported with 30 days if you can show a reasonable excuse for the delay or 180 days if you can show the employer was not prejudiced by the delay. Missing this deadline can jeopardize your entire claim, so report any workplace injury as soon as possible.

Will You Get Fired If You File A Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Minnesota law protects workers from retaliation for filing legitimate workers’ compensation claims. Your employer cannot fire, demote or otherwise punish you for seeking benefits you’re entitled to receive.

We’re Here To Fight For You

At other firms, you get very little direct contact with your attorney. However, at our office, we are always available for you to meet with your lawyer, so you can discuss your fears and get answers to your questions. We know that a work injury is a source of great stress, and we are prepared to fight for your interests.

Your first consultation is free, and we only collect attorney fees when we successfully recover benefits for you. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 952-448-2800, 701-581-7854, 507-388-1800 or 612-424-6011, or complete our online contact form.