In a recent episode of WTMJ’s “The Sunday Sip”, Vince Vetrano interviewed Alex Eichhorn, founder and managing attorney at Axis Legal, LLC, about Wisconsin workers’ compensation law. They discussed how this law provides crucial protection for employees in the event of workplace accidents. The interview went beyond the common misconceptions about workplace injuries to highlight the importance of this legal protection.
Beyond the Acute Accident: Help for the “Worn Down” Worker
While Axis Legal, LLC handles traditional personal injury claims, Alex Eichhorn emphasizes a dedicated focus on individuals who have been worn down by work. These are employees in physically demanding or repetitive jobs who, over the years, develop debilitating conditions in their backs, hips, knees or shoulders.
“Maybe they’re 55 now, and their doctor says they need a hip or shoulder replacement,” Eichhorn explained. “Many don’t realize that this can be a compensable workers’ comp claim under Wisconsin law.” This important information helps employees understand that their chronic pain and necessary surgery may be the responsibility of their employer.
Common Mistakes and the Path to Protection
When asked about the most common mistakes potential clients make, Eichhorn highlighted the critical failure to take action as the most significant mistake. Many people simply do not realize that they might have a valid case. He advised that the ideal time to seek legal advice is when a doctor recommends surgery.
The other significant errors were procedural: not reporting the condition to the employer and, most importantly, not informing the doctor that the illness was work-related. “We’ll need that medical support later to prove causation,” Eichhorn pointed out, emphasizing the importance of establishing a documented case from the beginning.
Fighting Denied Claims and Misconceptions About Cost
A denied claim is not the end of the journey. Eichhorn explained that this is when an experienced lawyer is most needed. He explained the so-called “independent” medical examiners employed by insurance companies, saying they are often paid to save money for the company. Axis Legal countered this by obtaining truly independent medical opinions in support of the worker, which has significant weight with the judges.
Addressing the concern about cost, Eichhorn was clear: Axis Legal’s services are completely risk-free for clients. “Clients never pay out of pocket,” he said. The firm is paid directly by the workers’ compensation carrier, and only if they receive benefits that the client would not otherwise have received.
Your First Step Toward Recovery
Axis Legal, LLC is dedicated to ensuring that workers in Southeast Wisconsin who are worn out by their jobs receive comprehensive compensation and medical care they are legally entitled to.