Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Shoulder surgery denied because of pre-existing arthritis

TYPE OF CASE: Workers’ Compensation FACTS: Our client was a 69-year-old man who injured his right shoulder at work. He sought immediate medical attention and the work comp insurer accepted his claim and began paying medical and wage loss benefits. He was right-handed and had no history of any prior right shoulder injuries or medical … Continue reading Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Shoulder surgery denied because of pre-existing arthritis

My Minnesota Work Comp Claim Was Denied Because of a Prior Injury. Now What?

This is another of the common problems we often deal with when helping people who have been injured on the job across northern Minnesota. Typical situation:  you have been working for several years without any physical problems, work restrictions, lost time or any other difficulties or limitations. Then one day at work, you are lifting or … Continue reading My Minnesota Work Comp Claim Was Denied Because of a Prior Injury. Now What?

How Long Does a Minnesota Work Comp Claim Stay Open?

A few times each year I get calls from people with questions about an old Minnesota work comp claim. Most often, they have either had some type of flareup or progressively worsening symptoms from a work injury which had occurred several years in the past. The questions usually relate to whether the insurance company is … Continue reading How Long Does a Minnesota Work Comp Claim Stay Open?

Can the Insurance Company Refuse to Pay Medical Bills after a Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Settlement?

This is a question I frequently hear not only from clients but also from people who have settled a claim, with or without a lawyer, at sometime in the past. In fact, sometimes many years have gone by since the settlement before this issue arises and I receive a phone call. The question is usually … Continue reading Can the Insurance Company Refuse to Pay Medical Bills after a Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Settlement?

Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Ankle Injury on a Flat, Dry Floor

Type of Case: Workers’ Compensation Legal Issue or Dispute: Denial of ankle injury claim which occurred at work Facts: Our client was employed with one of the mining companies in northern Minnesota. His job duties required him to maintain and repair equipment within the facility. On the day he was injured, one of the machines … Continue reading Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Ankle Injury on a Flat, Dry Floor

Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Consequential Knee Injury

Type of Case: Workers’ Compensation Legal Issue or Dispute: Consequential knee injury following a back injury Facts: Our client suffered a low back injury in the course and scope of his employment. The injury was accepted by the work comp insurer and our client eventually had two back surgeries. Although the surgeries were successful, he … Continue reading Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Consequential Knee Injury

What Is a Repetitive or Gillette Work Injury in Minnesota?

One of the more confusing issues in a Minnesota work comp claim is what constitutes an “injury”.   If you fall off a ladder and break your arm while at work, we would all agree that you had a work injury.  If you wrenched your back lifting a heavy box at work -  again, that … Continue reading What Is a Repetitive or Gillette Work Injury in Minnesota?

Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Gillette Injury and Back Surgery Accepted

Type of Case:   Workers’ Compensation Legal Issue or Dispute:   Denial of claim for a work-related low back injury and surgery Facts:   Our client worked for a mid-sized employer in northern Minnesota.  Her job involved assembly and the operation of various machines. She was on her feet throughout most of a work shift, standing on a … Continue reading Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Gillette Injury and Back Surgery Accepted

When Should I Hire a Lawyer for My Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Claim?

A very common question.  In fact, a question that I am asked nearly every time I meet with someone about a work comp claim for the first time.  A very good question but one with no easy answer.  An easier question to answer would be  “when is it a good idea to talk to a … Continue reading When Should I Hire a Lawyer for My Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Repetitive Thumb Injury and Surgery

Type of Case:   Workers’ Compensation Legal Issue or Dispute:  Denial of claim for a repetitive thumb injury requiring surgery Facts:   Our client worked for a large healthcare provider in northern Minnesota.  His job duties over many years involved repetitive work with his hands and thumbs. He developed a condition which required a significant hand surgery … Continue reading Bradt Law Offices Case Report: Repetitive Thumb Injury and Surgery