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Should we have a lawyer? work injury & workers comp

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suzytlk2u

Guest
In January a freind (lives in Bullhead City, Az) was injured on the job in Las Vegas. He was referred to a doctor in Kingman AZ who perscribed pain medication & told him to stay off work 1 week, then return to work on light duty. He was expected to drive (under medication) to either L.Vegas to Kingman. Workman's Comp finally referred him to a Neurlogical specialist in L.Vegas who determined he is unable to drive and work at this time, referred him for physical therapy in Bullhead, AZ. He has 2 herniated discs,& now on workers comp. He has constant back pain on one side and one leg numb. He's been receiving 'steriod' injections & was told if this doesn't help the next option is surgery. He has been on pain killers & muscle relaxers. Physical therapy & steriod injections have not helped. Three days ago after receiving the steriod injection he told the doctor the other leg went numb. The doctor responded saying that should not be happening, it didn't make sense, offered no explanation for it, and told him to return in 2 weeks. He got the impression the doctor didn't believe him.

He is very tired of taking pain medication and is depressed. I feel he desperately needs legal counsel. He is wearing down & medication is causing confusion and is unable to clearly think and communicate when attempting decide what to do. Can you please advise as to what steps he should take? We don't have any knowledge in these areas. His financial situation now is such he can't afford legal fees up front and has no privage medical coverage.

1) Should he TALK TO AN ATTORNEY? 2) CAN HE GO TO ANOTHER SPECIALIST of his choice if he's not satisfied with the present one? If, so, can it be in Phoenix, AZ, which is 3 hr drive from Bullhead City, Az. Bullhead residents with serious problems go to either L.Vegas or Phx for treatment. Any advice or input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for your time.
Sincerely, Marsha";
 


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BigDon9350

Guest
Seek Counsel

You should tell your friend to seek counsel right away. In most states you have within a two year time period. Consultations with a Workers Compensation Lawyer are usually free and if they take your case then their fee is normally awarded at the time of your settlement. In doing this, the attorney will give your friend the right advice as far as a 2nd opinion with another Doctor to rule out if surgery is needed. The attorney will also see to it that you are paid a percentage for lost wages. I'm not sure what that amount is but here in New Jersey, an injured worker is entitled to 70% of his gross earnings.
Good Luck, Don
 

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