One moment, you’re doing your job, and then an injury brings everything to a stop. One moment, you’re doing your job — the next, you’re dealing with doctor’s visits, missed paychecks, and a confusing workers’ compensation system that doesn’t seem to work in your favor.
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, our Hartford workers’ compensation lawyers do more than just handle work injury claims—we stand up to employers and insurance companies that try to avoid responsibility.
Our Hartford labor and employment lawyers protect workers and hold corporations accountable, especially when they cut corners that put people at risk. We offer honest legal help and will take your case on contingency, which means you don’t pay unless we recover damages for you. Call us today for a free consultation.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a system that helps employees who are injured on the job or become sick because of their work. In Connecticut, almost all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance under the law (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 31-275 through § 31-355).
You must report your injury or illness to your employer within one year of the injury date. Ideally, you should tell your supervisor right away—preferably the same day the injury happens. Waiting too long can make it harder to get your benefits approved.
If your injury or illness qualifies, you can reasonably expect to receive:
- Medical treatment for your injury.
- Wage replacement if you can’t work for a while.
- Disability benefits if you have lasting limitations.
- Help with returning to work if needed.
This system is supposed to provide help without needing to sue your employer. However, even though the system is meant to protect workers, claims are often delayed or denied. Insurance companies may question how the injury happened or argue that it’s not work-related.
A workers’ compensation lawyer in Hartford, CT, from our firm can guide you through the process, make sure your paperwork is complete, and fight back if your benefits are denied. We’ll be here to answer your questions and help you get what you’re owed.
For a free legal consultation with a workers' compensation lawyer serving Hartford, call (860) 999-9394
Our Workers’ Compensation Claim Lawyers in Hartford Will Lead Your Case
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we take pride in standing up for injured workers. Our firm is different because:
- We focus on labor and employment law, not just injury claims.
- We take on social justice issues in the workplace.
- We believe in holding corporations accountable for unsafe working conditions.
- We work on a contingency fee basis – no fees unless we win for you.
We will handle every step of your case while you focus on recovering from your accident. This includes:
- Filing your claim correctly and on time.
- Gathering medical records and other evidence.
- Appealing denied claims.
- Representing you at hearings.
- Exploring third-party claims if someone else caused your injury.
Hartford Workers' Compensation Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
Workers Can Receive Various Benefits for a Work-Related Injury
If you qualify for workers’ compensation in Connecticut, you may receive:
- Medical care: Payment for doctors, hospitals, and rehabilitation
- Lost income: Partial wage replacement if you can’t work temporarily or permanently
- Disability benefits: For permanent injuries or disabilities
- Job retraining: If you can’t return to your old job
- Death benefits: For family members of someone who died in a work accident
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Workers Can Suffer Various Injuries in the Workplace
We help workers across many industries, from construction and manufacturing to office jobs and healthcare. Common injuries include:
- Falls and broken bones
- Back injuries from lifting or twisting
- Repetitive stress injuries (like carpal tunnel)
- Burns and chemical exposure
- Head or brain injuries
- Illnesses caused by toxic substances
A workers’ compensation attorney in Hartford, CT, from our firm will investigate the cause of your injury, help you gather medical records, and deal with the insurance company.
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Common Reasons Workers’ Compensation Claims Get Denied
Even if your injury seems straightforward, insurance companies often deny claims. Some common reasons include:
- Your employer claims the injury didn’t happen at work
- You missed a deadline for reporting or filing
- The insurer says your injury isn’t serious enough
- A dispute over whether your medical treatment was necessary
When this happens, you don’t have to give up. We can help you appeal the denial and fight for the benefits you’re owed. The legal team at Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard knows the system—and how to challenge unfair denials.
Can You Sue for a Workplace Injury?
In most cases, workers’ compensation is your only option against your employer. But if someone other than your employer caused your injury, you may be able to file a third-party lawsuit.
Third-Party Lawsuits for Workplace Injuries
Here’s when this could apply:
- A driver hit you while you were making a delivery.
- You were injured by defective equipment or tools.
- A contractor or subcontractor on your job site caused the accident.
- You were exposed to toxic chemicals due to someone else’s actions.
In these cases, you can file a regular personal injury lawsuit against the person or company responsible. Our Hartford workers’ compensation law firm will explain your options and file a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party lawsuit if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp Benefits
Understanding workers’ compensation isn’t always easy—especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from injured workers.
These FAQs can help you get a better sense of your rights and what to expect, but if you still have questions, a workers’ claim attorney in Hartford at Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard is here to help.
What If I Was Partly At Fault for My Injury?
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. That means you can usually still get benefits even if the injury was partly your fault.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for Workers’ Comp Benefits?
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 31-294c, you generally have one year from the date of your injury (or three years for an occupational disease) to file a workers’ compensation claim.
What If I Can’t Go Back to My Old Job?
You may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation or job retraining. In some cases, you may qualify for permanent partial or total disability benefits.
Can I Lose My Job for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
It’s illegal for your employer to fire or retaliate against you just for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If that happens, our Hartford labor and employment lawyers can help you take legal action.
Do I Need an Attorney for a Workers’ Compensation Claim I Am Filing in Hartford?
While you don’t have to have a lawyer, it’s a good idea—especially if the Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) claim was denied, your benefits are delayed, or you believe your rights are being violated. A workers’ compensation attorney in Hartford, CT, from our firm can protect your rights and fight for fair treatment.
Contact Us for Help From Our Hartford Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
No one expects to get hurt on the job, but when it happens, life gets complicated fast. If you have suffered an injury at work, don’t try to handle everything alone. Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard will work to recover the benefits—and justice—you deserve.
We offer a free initial consultation, and because our Hartford workers’ compensation lawyers work on contingency, you won’t owe us anything unless we win. Call us today to get started.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form