If you were hurt at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. These benefits can cover your medical bills and lost wages while you recover. But filing a claim and getting it approved can be harder than it should be. At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we help workers across Mississippi get the benefits they deserve. Whether your claim was denied or you’re just getting started, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is Workers’ Compensation and How Does It Work in Mississippi?
Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that pays benefits to employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness. The program is no-fault, which means you don’t have to prove your employer did anything wrong to receive benefits. If your injury or condition happened while doing your job, or as a result of your job, even if it didn’t occur at your actual place of work, you’re likely covered.
Under Mississippi law, most businesses with five or more employees must carry workers’ compensation coverage. This includes a wide range of industries, from construction and manufacturing to office-based jobs.
Common Workplace Injuries We See
No job is completely risk-free, and injuries can happen in ways you might not expect. Some of the most common work-related injuries in Mississippi include:
- Overexertion from lifting, pushing, or pulling
- Slips, trips, and falls on wet floors or uneven surfaces
- Being struck by falling tools, materials, or equipment
- Machinery accidents, especially in factories or construction zones
- Burns, cuts, and crush injuries
- Hearing loss or respiratory conditions caused by long-term exposure
- Workplace violence, including physical altercations or assaults
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, the U.S. had over 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses. Many of those workers needed time off or ongoing care.
What Are Your Rights After a Work Injury?
If you’ve been hurt on the job, you have certain legal rights. Here are a few important ones under Mississippi’s workers’ compensation system:
- You must report your injury to your employer within 30 days
- You can choose your own doctor, and that doctor can refer you to a specialist
- You’re entitled to medical care for your injury, including prescriptions and travel to appointments
- You can receive wage replacement, typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a limit
- If your injury is long-term, you may qualify for permanent disability benefits
- You can receive benefits for up to 450 weeks, or until your doctor clears you to return to work
Injured workers often have questions about when and how to file, especially if they’re unsure what kind of injury qualifies or if symptoms develop over time. We’re here to help you understand your rights and avoid mistakes that could affect your claim.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can You Receive?
Mississippi’s workers’ compensation system provides a range of benefits depending on the severity of your injury. These typically include:
- Medical benefits – All reasonable medical expenses, including surgery, rehab, prescriptions, and travel costs
- Temporary disability benefits – If you’re unable to work during recovery, you’ll receive partial wage replacement
- Permanent disability benefits – If you don’t fully recover, you may be eligible for additional compensation based on the extent of your impairment
- Death benefits – If a worker is killed on the job, surviving family members may receive financial support
It’s important to know that your employer’s insurance company does not always have your best interests in mind. We will stand by your side and make sure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
When to Call a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Some workers’ comp claims are straightforward. Others get delayed, denied, or underpaid. You should reach out to our team if:
- Your claim was denied or delayed
- You have a preexisting condition that’s affecting your claim
- You’re being pressured to return to work too soon
- You disagree with your disability rating
- You’re already receiving Social Security Disability or other benefits
- You’re facing a hearing or appeal
We offer free and confidential consultations, so there’s no risk in getting advice. We’ll review your situation and help you figure out the next best step.
Contact Our Experienced Southaven & Hernando Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we represent clients throughout North Mississippi, including Southaven and Hernando. We’ll handle the paperwork, deal with the insurance company, and fight to make sure you get what you’re owed.
You’ve worked hard. If you were injured doing your job, let us work hard for you. Call us today for a free consultation.
