Workers Compensation Attorneys in Kansas City, MO

How to File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Missouri

If you are injured at work in Kansas City, MO, follow these critical steps:

1. Report Your Injury Promptly – Inform your employer within 30 days to maintain eligibility.
2. Seek Medical Treatment – Your employer may direct you to an approved healthcare provider.
3. Keep Records – Document medical visits, treatments, and lost wages.
4. Ensure Your Employer Files a Claim – They should report the injury to the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation.
5. Consult a Legal Professional – A Kansas City, MO work injury attorney can advocate for your best interests.
   
   

Understanding TTD vs. PTD in Workers’ Compensation

Missouri’s workers’ compensation system provides different types of disability benefits based on injury severity:

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD) – Provides financial assistance while you are unable to work temporarily.
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD) – Covers long-term wage loss if you are permanently unable to return to work.
  
  

A workers comp attorney in Kansas City, MO can determine the appropriate classification for your situation and ensure you receive the correct benefits.

Am I Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits If My Injury Prevents Me From Working Permanently?

If your workplace injury is so severe that you will never be able to return to any type of employment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in addition to workers’ compensation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that your condition be long-term—lasting at least 12 months or resulting in permanent disability. Unlike workers’ compensation, which is designed to cover work-related injuries, SSD benefits apply to individuals who are unable to work in any job, regardless of the cause. Because the SSD application process is complex and denials are common, having an experienced attorney can improve your chances of approval.

Can I Receive Compensation for Pain and Suffering Like Someone in a Car Accident?

Workers’ compensation differs from personal injury claims—such as those for car accidents—in that it does not cover pain and suffering. Instead, it provides benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability, ensuring you receive financial support for your injury. However, if a third party (such as a negligent manufacturer or contractor) played a role in your workplace accident, you might have the option to file a separate personal injury lawsuit, which could allow you to seek additional damages for pain and suffering. Consulting a lawyer can help determine if you have grounds for such a claim.

I Don’t Know If I Need a Lawyer for My Workers’ Compensation Claim, and I Can’t Afford One—What Should I Do?

Many injured workers worry about hiring an attorney due to financial concerns, but most workers' compensation lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything upfront, and your attorney only gets paid if they secure compensation for you. Legal representation can make a significant difference, especially if your claim is delayed, denied, or undervalued. Additionally, most firms offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your case with a lawyer at no cost and decide whether legal assistance is the right choice for you.

Workers' Compensation Benefits Available in Missouri

If you sustain a workplace injury, you may be entitled to:

• Medical Expense Coverage – Covers doctor visits, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wage Compensation – Partial income replacement while you recover.
• Disability Benefits – Financial support for temporary or permanent impairments.
• Job Rehabilitation Assistance – Helps you transition to a new role if necessary.
• Death Benefits – Provides compensation to families of deceased workers.
  
  

Common Workplace Injuries in Kansas City, MO

Employees in Kansas City and neighboring communities frequently experience injuries such as:

• Slip-and-Fall Accidents – Leading to fractures, head trauma, or back injuries.
• Repetitive Stress Injuries – Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
• Machinery-Related Injuries – Often occurring in industrial and manufacturing jobs.
• Chemical Exposure – Resulting in burns or respiratory conditions.
• Work Vehicle Accidents – Injuries sustained in job-related transportation incidents.
  
  

The Role of Negligence in Workers’ Compensation Cases

Missouri operates under a no-fault workers’ compensation system, meaning employees do not need to prove employer negligence. However, some circumstances may allow for additional claims, including:

• Employer Misconduct – If an employer intentionally places workers in hazardous conditions.
• Third-Party Responsibility – If a manufacturer or contractor played a role in the injury, a separate claim may be possible.
  
  

A Kansas City, MO work accident attorney can evaluate your case to determine if additional legal action is appropriate.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Workers' Compensation Attorney?

At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we offer legal services on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

• No Upfront Fees – You only pay if we successfully secure compensation for you.
• Free Initial Consultation – We review your case at no charge to assess your options.
  
  

Our goal is to ensure every injured worker has access to quality legal representation without financial stress.

Serving Injured Workers in Kansas City, MO, and Nearby Areas

We proudly advocate for injured workers in Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, Blue Springs, Liberty, and surrounding communities. Whether you work in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, or transportation, our team is here to protect your rights.

If you have been injured in a work-related accident, don’t handle your claim alone. Contact Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer for a free consultation today. Our experienced Kansas City, MO workers’ compensation team is ready to fight for the benefits you deserve.