New Orleans Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Every day, hardworking men and women across New Orleans face the risk of workplace injuries. Whether on a construction site, in a hospital, or behind the wheel of a delivery truck, accidents can happen in an instant. When they do, the workers’ compensation system should provide medical care and wage replacement benefits. Unfortunately, many injured workers face delays, denials, or pressure to return to work before they are ready.
At Douglas & London, our New Orleans workers’ compensation lawyers fight to protect the rights of injured employees. We know how employers and insurers operate and the tactics they use to avoid accountability, and it’s part of our mission to make sure employers and insurers don’t take advantage of injured workers in their time of need. Get a free consultation today.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Louisiana
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees injured on the job. In Louisiana, nearly all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation coverage. Benefits may include:
- Medical Care: Coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and necessary surgeries
- Wage Replacement: Temporary or permanent disability benefits if you cannot work or can only return in a limited capacity
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Assistance for workers who cannot return to their previous job and need retraining
- Death Benefits: Financial support for families when a work-related accident proves fatal
In exchange for these benefits, employees generally cannot sue their employers directly. However, you may still have the right to file a separate personal injury claim if a third party (such as a contractor, property owner, or manufacturer of faulty equipment) contributed to your accident.
Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Laws
Louisiana has specific rules that impact workers’ comp claims:
- Reporting Injuries: Injuries must be reported to your employer within 30 days
- Statute of Limitations: Claims must generally be filed within one year of the accident or the last payment of benefits
- Choice of Doctor: Employees have the right to choose their own doctor, but employers may request an additional evaluation
- Dispute Resolution: The Louisiana Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration (OWCA) oversees disputes between injured workers and insurers
Our attorneys are familiar with these laws and how they are applied in New Orleans courts. We make sure claims are filed correctly, deadlines are met, and benefits are pursued aggressively.
The Unique Aspects of Workers’ Compensation in New Orleans
Our firm has represented injured employees across these sectors, and we understand the unique dangers of working in New Orleans.
Our High-Risk Industries
New Orleans workers face unique risks tied to the city’s major industries. Workers in the construction sector, fueled by constant development and infrastructure repair, are prone to falls, crane accidents, and electrical injuries. The hospitality and tourism industry, which powers much of the French Quarter and downtown, sees frequent workplace injuries among hotel staff, restaurant workers, and entertainers. The maritime sector, vital to the Port of New Orleans, creates risks of longshore accidents, shipyard injuries, and offshore drilling incidents.
Our firm has represented injured employees across these sectors, and we understand the unique dangers of working in New Orleans.
Local Hospitals and Treatment Centers
After a work injury, many employees in New Orleans receive care at facilities such as University Medical Center, Ochsner Medical Center, or Tulane Medical Center. Access to prompt and high-quality treatment is critical, but medical bills should never fall on the shoulders of an injured worker. We fight to ensure workers’ comp insurers cover the care you need.
Local Resources for Injured Workers
The Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration (OWCA) provide resources for employees navigating claims. Additionally, local organizations, such as the Workers’ Center for Racial Justice and other community-based advocacy groups, have supported New Orleans workers in disputes with their employers. Our attorneys help clients connect with these resources while pursuing legal remedies.
Common Challenges in Workers’ Compensation Cases
Even though the system is supposed to protect workers, workers’ compensation doesn’t always find its way to the people that need it most. In instances like this, it’s important to have a legal advocate on your side to help you navigate the system. Many injured workers encounter challenges such as:
- Delayed approval for medical treatment
- Wrongful denial of wage benefits
- Pressure to return to work prematurely
- Retaliation or job loss for filing a claim
Our New Orleans workers’ comp attorneys push back against these tactics. We gather medical evidence, communicate with doctors, and represent clients before the OWCA to fight for fair treatment. If you’ve experienced any of the above challenges, contact us today and let’s get started on your case.
What are Third-Party Liability Claims?
In some cases, workers’ compensation benefits are not the only path to recovery. If your injuries were caused by defective equipment, unsafe property conditions, or negligence by a third party, we may pursue an additional New Orleans personal injury lawsuit. This can result in compensation beyond what workers’ comp provides, including more substantial coverage for wage loss, pain and suffering, and punitive damages you’ve suffered.
Why Choose Douglas & London in New Orleans?
Douglas & London has secured billions in compensation for injured clients nationwide. We are not intimidated by large employers, insurers, or corporations. Our attorneys provide aggressive representation while treating clients with compassion and respect. From day one, we take on the burden of your case so you can focus on healing.
We believe New Orleans workers deserve better than delays and denials. Our mission is simple: to protect your rights, maximize your benefits, and pursue justice when employers or insurers fail to do the right thing.
Call Our New Orleans Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
If you suffered a work-related injury in New Orleans, do not face the system alone. Contact Douglas & London today for a free consultation. Our attorneys are ready to fight for the benefits and compensation you deserve.
