Sioux City Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Fighting For Your Rights

Sioux City’s strong manufacturing and meatpacking industry has been vital to the community for generations. However, the city’s hardworking residents often face significant risks on the job. If you have a work injury, workers’ compensation benefits can provide crucial financial support for medical care and lost wages while you recover.

Unfortunately, the process is often confusing and difficult to manage alone. At Wertz Law Firm, P.C., our Sioux City workers’ compensation attorneys have more than six decades of combined experience providing legal representation to injured workers. We stand up for our neighbors across Iowa against major employers and insurance companies, and we are ready to stand with you.

When Do You Qualify For Workers’ Compensation?

Who is eligible for workers’ compensation benefits? This can be any employee who suffered an injury or illness “arising out of and in the course of” their employment. This means their personal injury was directly connected to the work they do.

In Sioux City, claims often come from the meatpacking, manufacturing and construction industries. Accidents, such as a fall at a construction site or a burn at a food service job, can be sudden. Injuries may also develop over time, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or other repetitive stress injuries. Our attorneys have helped workers with all types of injuries, including:

Neck and back injuries
Shoulder injuries
Brain injuries
Occupational illnesses and chemical exposure
Depression and other mental health challenges

Can you still receive workers’ compensation benefits if you caused your own accident? It depends on the specifics of the accident. Workers’ compensation in Iowa is a no-fault system, which means you don’t have to prove that any party was at fault. However, you may not be eligible for benefits if the injury was intentionally self-inflicted.

Can Your Employer Make You Return To Work After An Injury?

No, your employer cannot force you to return to work before you are physically ready. Your doctor is the one who determines when it’s safe for you to go back, which is usually when you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). This is the point when your condition has stabilized and further medical care will not likely improve it. It can mark the end of temporary wage benefits and allow for your return to work.

In cases involving severe injuries, it may not be possible for you to fulfill the same role or type of work you used to do. Your doctor may let you return to work, but with certain restrictions. Your employer is legally bound to make reasonable accommodations for you.

Speak With A Sioux City Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

Our goal is to secure the compensation that will help you heal and get back to work as soon as possible. We know this is a difficult time, but you don’t have to face the complex obstacles of workers’ compensation on your own. We work hard for people in West Des Moines, Polk County and beyond. Call us at 319-861-3001 or send an email using this form.