Cedar Rapids Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Cedar Rapids’ Top Employers

With so much to do, tourism obviously plays a part in making Cedar Rapids’ economy so formidable. There’s so much more, though — from arts and entertainment to medicine, manufacturing, food science, transportation, information technology (IT), and beyond. Notably, it’s also one of the world’s largest producers of processed corn.

Among Cedar Rapids’ biggest businesses and top employers are:

• Rockwell Collins
• Transamerica
• Quaker Oats
• General Mills
• St. Luke’s Hospital
• Hy-Vee
• Aegon
• Mercy Medical Center
• Kirkwood Community College
• Cedar Rapids Community School District
• Archer Daniels Midland
• Nordstrom
• Cargill
• Toyota Financial Services
• Newspaperarchive
• Local government (Linn County and The City of Cedar Rapids)

With that many big names in industry, the hardworking people of Cedar Rapids undoubtedly find themselves in need of legal representation or advice from time to time. When that happens, you can count on Pothitakis Law Firm P.C.

Get the Facts About Workers' Compensation

What is workers' compensation?

Workers' compensation is a form of insurance that provides wage replacement, medical benefits, and other assistance to employees injured during the course of their employment.

Who is eligible for workers' compensation in Iowa?

Any employee injured while performing job duties, regardless of fault, is typically eligible for workers' compensation in Iowa. This could include, for example, someone injured in a construction or industrial accident.

What types of injuries are covered under workers' compensation?

Workers' compensation covers injuries that occur while performing job-related duties. This includes physical injuries, occupational illnesses, and sometimes mental health issues caused by work.

How do I file a workers' compensation claim in Iowa?

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing. Your employer will then notify their workers' compensation insurance carrier and file a report with the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner.

How long do I have to report a workplace injury?

You should report the injury within 90 days of the date of the injury or when you become aware that your injury is work-related.

What benefits can I receive through workers' compensation?

Workers' compensation benefits may include medical treatment, temporary total disability (TTD) benefits, permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation, if necessary.

Will I get paid while I'm recovering from my injury?

If you're unable to work due to your injury, you may receive wage replacement benefits (which can replace up to 80% of your spendable weekly earnings) while you're recovering.

Can I choose my own doctor for treatment?

Generally, your employer has the right to choose the doctor you see for your work-related injury. However, you can seek a second opinion or alternative treatment if you disagree with the initial diagnosis or treatment plan.

What if my workers' compensation claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. You can file a petition with the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner for a hearing to resolve the dispute.

How long does it take to receive workers' compensation benefits?

After reporting your injury, it may take a few weeks for benefits to begin, depending on the circumstances of your claim and whether it is disputed by the employer or insurance carrier.

What if I have a pre-existing condition that is aggravated by my job?

Workers' compensation in Iowa covers aggravations of pre-existing conditions if the aggravation occurred as a result of work-related activities.

Can I receive compensation if I am permanently disabled?

Yes, if your injury results in a permanent disability, you may be entitled to permanent partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability (PTD) benefits, depending on the severity of your injury.

What if I can return to work but in a different role?

If you're able to return to work in a modified or light-duty capacity, you may still be eligible for partial disability benefits to make up for any wage loss.

How long can I receive workers' compensation benefits?

The duration of benefits depends on the severity of your injury. Temporary disability benefits last as long as you're unable to work, while permanent disability benefits can last for years or even a lifetime, depending on the degree of disability.

Can I be fired for filing a workers' compensation claim?

No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a workers' compensation claim.

Do I need a lawyer to handle my workers' compensation claim?

While not required, having an attorney can be helpful, especially if your claim is denied or you have a complex case involving permanent disability.

What happens if my injury was caused by a third party?

You may be able to file a separate lawsuit against the third party, in addition to receiving workers' compensation benefits, if your injury was caused by someone other than your employer or a co-worker.

How is my compensation calculated?

Compensation is typically based on a percentage of your average weekly wage before the injury, with adjustments for the severity of your disability.

What if I disagree with the compensation amount?

You can file a formal dispute with the Iowa Workers' Compensation Commissioner if you believe the compensation amount is incorrect.

How long do I have to file a claim for workers' comp in Iowa?

You have two years from the date of injury, or from the date you knew or should have known the injury was work-related, to file a workers' compensation claim in Iowa.