A client of my named Jim, was a hard working truck driver and father of two children. While he was driving his employer’s tractor-trailer, he was involved in an accident causing him to sustain two broken bones in his back. He was immediately transported to the nearest trauma center where he spent the next several days. Doctors told Jim that he was lucky that he was not paralyzed and a few days later he was released from the hospital and told to follow-up with his family doctor. Jim notified his employer of the accident and the insurance company called him to take a statement. Jim told the insurance adjustor exactly what happened and a few days later he received a letter stating that they were denying his claim and not paying his lost wages or medical expenses. Jim was desperate when he came to my office as he was not receiving any income. I did some checking up and I obtained the accident report, hired a private investigator and contacted the insurance company about their previous decision.
Thankfully for Jim, he found my webpage on the internet and requested my Iowa Workers’ Compensation book. I sent him my work injury book along with an audio CD discussing work injuries and an interview discussing Iowa’s workers’ compensation system. Jim lived in Texas, but drove for an Iowa trucking company. I explained to Jim that the contract he signed with his employer provided that he would receive Iowa workers’ compensation benefits. This was actually good for Jim because Iowa has one of the best systems in the country. I had a phone conference with him on the phone and agreed to take his case.
We were able to complete the necessary documents through mail for him to sign and he did not have to come back to Iowa. Once I intervened in the case, the insurance company decided that Jim’s claim was legitimate and began paying him for his lost wages. After missing several months of work, Jim made a satisfactory recovery. However, he was not able to go back to driving a truck which is all he had ever done. While the case was pending he applied for and qualified for Social Security disability benefits. We were set to have a trial in this case, but one week prior to trial I was able to obtain a “just” settlement for Jim so he can move on with his life.
People hurt at work often do not know what their basic rights are. If you have an Iowa Workers’ compensation claim, then you should have the basic information about your rights under Iowa’s workers’ compensation laws, including what benefits you should receive, how your weekly check is calculated and much more.
This article contains general statements, is not intended as legal advice or legal opinions and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Do not act or rely upon the information in this article without seeking the advice of an attorney because changes in the law occur frequently and you should consult with an attorney with respect to your particular case.
