Madison Worker’s Compensation Attorneys
Our Worker’s Compensation Attorneys Represent Injured Workers in Madison and Throughout Dane County
Home to the University of Wisconsin, the state capital of Madison is a vibrant and diverse community. With highly regarded restaurants and four nearby lakes—Mendota, Monona, Kegonsa, and Waubesa—Madison has something for everyone. It has the most parks/playgrounds per person of major U.S. cities and it has been recognized as one of the premier places for bicycle enthusiasts in the United States.
Workers across a wide variety of different industries help make Madison run. Unfortunately, job-related accidents remain a serious cause of concern. At Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf, our Madison, WI worker’s comp lawyers are strong, experienced advocates for justice. If you or your family member was hurt while on the job, please do not hesitate to contact our law firm for a free, strictly confidential consultation with a top-rated Wisconsin worker’s comp attorney.
Your Guide to Wisconsin’s Worker’s Compensation Laws
Worker’s compensation was set in place as a system of compensating work-related injuries without employees suing their place of work. Whether you work in an office or on a construction site, you are covered by worker’s compensation. These laws exist to provide you, the employee, with the financial means to cover any medical bills or lost wages that come as a result of a work injury.
Common hazards that may lead to an injury or illness in the workplace including falling objects, equipment malfunction, toxic exposure. These hazards can lead to severe injuries and infections that can force you to miss work. There are many myths and misconceptions regarding worker’s comp claims in Wisconsin. Here are five key things to know about state law:
- Almost All Employees Can File a Claim: Many people do not believe that they are eligible for worker’s compensation, but over 98% of Madison’s workforce is. The Worker’s Compensation Act also covers both part-time and full-time employees in most cases and is also available to employees of the private and public sectors. Indeed, Wisconsin state law requires virtually all employers in Dane County to provide no-fault worker’s comp insurance coverage to their employees.
- You Should Seek Medical Care and Report Your Accident: If you were hurt on the job in Madison, the first step is to see a doctor. Severe injuries may require emergency medical care. Non-emergency injuries should always be evaluated as soon as possible. Not only is it your right to see a doctor under Wisconsin law, but you have to seek medical treatment in order to file a worker’s compensation claim. Additionally, your injuries and/or occupational disease should be reported to your employer within 30 days. Failure to notify an employer in a timely manner could be used as a justification to deny your claim.
- Worker’s Comp Claims are Not Based on Fault: Your injuries may have come as a result of a fellow employee’s negligence or malfunctioning equipment while you performed your job responsibilities. Either instance is likely justifiable grounds to file a worker’s compensation claim. The reason for this is that worker’s compensation claims are not based on fault. Unlike a personal injury lawsuit, you are not required to prove negligence on the part of your employer in order to qualify for benefits. Instead, you can get benefits based solely on the fact that your injury, occupational disease, or other impairment arose out of the course and scope of your employment.
- A Wide Range of Injuries/Impairments are Covered: Disability payments can be accessed for both partial and total disability. If your work-related injury becomes fatal, death benefits are also available for your family. Some workplace injuries may include neck injury, back injury, shoulder injury, tendonitis, paralysis, spinal cord injury, and much more. A Madison worker’s compensation attorney from Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf can see to it that you are accurately compensated for your work-related injuries. We will help you get coverage for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment, financial benefits for the time you were forced to miss at work, and any other compensation that you are owed under the law.
- You Can Appeal a Denial in Madison, WI: Even though worker’s comp insurance provides no-fault benefits to employees in Madison, it can still be difficult to get a claim paid after a workplace accident. Sadly, employers and insurers can be hard to deal with. In many cases, workplaces may not consider your injury as work-related and deny your claim. Make sure you have experienced attorneys with a proven track record of success when pursuing worker’s compensation. The good news is that you have the right to appeal a denial. A Madison worker’s compensation attorney from Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf can provide you with the representation needed to help you retrieve the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose the Madison Worker’s Comp Lawyers at Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf
Work injury claims are notoriously complex. At Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf, we are here to help you through this tough time by aggressively seeking the compensation you deserve. When you get in touch with our law firm, you will have an opportunity to consult with a Madison, WI worker’s compensation attorney who is prepared to:
- Answer questions and explain the claims process during a free consultation.
- Handle the entire process—including worker’s comp claims paperwork.
- If needed, file an appeal to get you the full and fair benefits you are owed.
We have represented the injured worker for over 65 years and have also recovered Social Security Disability Insurance for various injuries and disabilities. Contact us today at 414-257-2667 to speak with an experienced Madison worker’s compensation attorney. You don’t pay us anything until we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Madison Worker’s Compensation
What is workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides medical care, wage replacement, and other benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. In Wisconsin, nearly all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Who is covered under Wisconsin workers’ compensation?
More than 98% of Wisconsin workers are covered from their first day of employment. Coverage applies to full-time, part-time, seasonal, and minor employees. Employers with three or more employees, or those with a payroll of $500 or more in any calendar quarter, must carry insurance. Exceptions include domestic workers, volunteers, and certain independent contractors.
What benefits are available?
Workers’ compensation in Wisconsin may include:
- Medical treatment for work-related injuries or illnesses
- Temporary total disability (TTD) payments if you are unable to work
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) if you return to work at a reduced capacity
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) for lasting impairments
- Vocational rehabilitation and retraining
- Mileage reimbursement for medical travel
How do I report a workplace injury?
If you are injured at work: 1. Seek immediate medical attention. 2. Inform your medical provider that the injury is work-related. 3. Report the injury to your supervisor within 24 hours. 4. Complete the Employee’s Work Injury and Illness Report and submit it to your employer. Your employer is responsible for filing your claim with their insurance carrier.
Can I choose my own doctor?
Yes, you have the right to choose any licensed physician practicing in Wisconsin to treat your work-related injury. You are not required to see a company-designated provider.
How long do benefits last?
The duration of benefits depends on the severity of your injury. Temporary disability benefits continue until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) or return to work. Permanent disability benefits are calculated based on impairment ratings and wage loss.
What if my claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, you can: – Request a hearing before an administrative law judge. – Submit medical evidence and witness testimony. – Appeal the decision if necessary. Legal representation is recommended for disputed claims. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) offers guidance and resources.
What if I’m injured while working remotely or off-site?
Injuries sustained while performing job duties—whether on-site, off-site, or remotely—may be covered. The key factor is whether the activity was within the scope of your employment. Each case is evaluated individually.
Can I be fired for filing a workers’ comp claim?
No, retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim is illegal. If you believe you have been fired or disciplined for asserting your rights, you may have grounds for a separate legal claim
Call Our Madison, WI Worker’s Comp Lawyers for Immediate Help
At Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf, our Madison worker’s compensation attorneys are experienced, results-driven advocates for injured workers and their family members. Were you hurt on the job? We are ready to begin working on your case right away. Call us now or connect with a Madison worker’s comp attorney online to arrange your free, no-obligation initial legal consultation. We handle worker’s comp claims and appeals throughout Dane County, including in Madison, Fitchburg, Verona, and Middleton.