Financial Support and Information Resource Guide for Families of Individuals With Injury-related Disabilities

Request A Free Case Consultation Today!

When the insurance company calls, do not speak to them! They are after their own interests, and it can hurt your case. Act now to protect your legal rights.

Complete the form below and we will reach out momentarily. We are available 24/7.

    300

    According to the CDC, 61 million adults in the United States were living with a disability in 2022. While some disabilities can be congenital or otherwise naturally develop over time, some can be the result of an injury. Such disabilities can come with unique challenges and long-term impacts. Therefore, if you or someone you love has sustained an injury-related disability, it is important to understand what options and resources are at your disposal.

    Unmet Needs Among People With Injury-related Disabilities

    “Unmet needs” refers to the health and wellness needs of people who are not being properly attended to. In the case of people with disabilities, this will often particularly refer to needs that are unique to the individual, their disability, and their circumstances. Unmet needs can include the following:

    • Lack of access to prescribed medications;
    • Improperly prescribed medications;
    • Lack of access to necessary healthcare specialists;
    • Lack of access to necessary healthcare services;
    • Inability to gain necessary day-to-day assistance and care;
    • Improper address of necessary accommodations at work;
    • Lack of access to accessible transportation;
    • Lack of access to important healthcare information;
    • Lack of access to important healthcare funding assistance.

    However, this is not the full extent of possible unmet needs that people with injury-related disabilities may experience. Such individuals need to meet with helpful professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, HR personnel, and personal advocates to assess their needs and properly inform them about avenues for meeting these needs.

    People With Injury-related Disabilities Caused in the Workplace

    Employers can be liable for injuries incurred in the course of an employee’s work if it was found that the employer did not take proper precautions to prevent the injury. Meanwhile, depending on the severity of the injury and how much it interferes with the individual’s ability to work and their quality of life, they may be entitled to compensation. Therefore, long-term disability resulting from an injury sustained in the workplace can be cause for a significant payout to the injured employee.

    How Common Is Workplace Injury in the U.S.?

    In the U.S., approximately 2.8 million nonfatal injuries occur in the private sector annually. Some of these injuries may result in temporary or permanent disabilities, with an average of 21 days of disability logged for each work disability reported in the U.S. Furthermore, while some disabilities may be permanent, they are not always total. Total permanent disability (TPD) is relatively rare, and refers to a permanent disability that prohibits you from being able to continue to work.

    What Is the Average Claim Amount for Workplace Injury?

    According to the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), the average cost of a workplace injury claim was $41,353 from 2019 to 2020. The types of injuries that accounted for the highest costs were related to amputations, fractures, crushes, dislocations, and burns. Meanwhile, injuries related to the head and central nervous system are among the most costly in the context of workplace compensation.

    Understanding Workers’ Compensation

    Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that is meant to compensate employees for wages and employment benefits lost as a result of an injury at work. Specific laws related to workers’ compensation depend on the state where the employees are located. Meanwhile, the parameters for federal employees are detailed under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). Depending on factors such as pertinent laws and the severity of the injury, an employee may receive payment for wages and benefits lost.

    Typically a workers’ compensation claim can be filed as soon as the employer has been notified about the incident. However, the claim can often be filed up to a year or more after the incident, depending on relevant state laws. How long it will take to begin receiving benefits will depend on how long it takes for the claim to be processed, but typically it shouldn’t take more than a month. The amount and duration of your compensation will depend on the circumstances of the injury and the laws of your state.

    In some unique cases, a third party is responsible for the injury, in which case the injured individual may sue this third party, even if their direct employer is shielded from a lawsuit. This would differ from a standard workers’ compensation case, as the injured employee would be directly suing the third party rather than seeking a payout from their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.

    Alternatives to Workers’ Compensation

    Standard workers’ compensation is not the only way employees can be financially protected against injury in the course of their work. Several laws and standards protect employees’ wages in various specific circumstances and lines of work.

    The Jones Act

    The Jones Act is a section of the Merchant Marine Act that relates to cabotage. According to the parameters of the Jones Act, ships transporting goods between U.S. ports must be constructed on U.S. soil and staffed by U.S. citizens. The Jones Act also outlines the rights of marine workers in the United States, including compensation related to negligence.

    A maritime worker employed on a qualifying ship can bring a lawsuit against their employer for any injuries they sustain as a result of the negligence of the owner or the unseaworthiness of the vessel. The lawsuit can be tried in either a state or federal court within three years of the incident. In addition to the narrow eligibility of potential plaintiffs, the Jones Act differs from traditional workers’ compensation insurance because it allows the plaintiff to sue their employer directly.

    If negligence is proven, maritime workers can receive compensation and may receive benefits in the form of maintenance and cure. “Maintenance” is a no-fault daily stipend, while “cure” is no-fault medical care. In the case of no-fault medical care offered to claimants, it is important to note that the individual can choose their healthcare provider rather than having to choose a provider from a specific system, as is common in workers’ compensation cases.

    FELA

    The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) is a law that provides parameters for railroad workers who are seeking compensation for injuries sustained in the course of their work. However, while in many ways FELA serves a similar purpose to traditional workers’ compensation, there are key differences.

    Notably, FELA allows plaintiffs to file a lawsuit against their employer directly, and FELA acknowledges suffering and emotional distress in addition to physical injury. Further, in contrast to the Jones Act, while FELA does not offer “maintenance and cure” provisions, there are often union-negotiated provisions for medical care and disability, which are ultimately offset against awarded compensation.

    LHWCA

    The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law that protects individuals in various private-sector maritime jobs who have sustained injuries covered under the parameters of the LHWCA. The benefits of the LHWCA also extend to civilians working on military bases as per the Defense Base Act.

    The LHWCA provides more substantial and comprehensive benefits than those offered by many state workers’ compensation programs. Often the LHWCA pays a greater fraction of the employee’s pre-injury wages and offers long-term disability benefits that are not available through all state compensation programs.

    Non-subscriber Statutes

    While some states have severe penalties for businesses who fail to carry workers’ compensation insurance (such as California, Pennsylvania, New York, and Illinois), other states (such as Texas, Oklahoma, and New Jersey) allow businesses to opt-out of workers’ compensation programs. In these cases, employees are free to sue their employers directly. Employers who pursue this option typically are large companies who manage these lawsuits through in-house arbitration programs.

    Catastrophic Injury and Disability

    In the context of workers’ compensation laws, catastrophic injury refers to an injury that causes permanent disability, permanent disfigurement, or fatality. Injuries that sometimes fall under this umbrella include:

    • Spinal cord injury and paralysis;
    • Amputation of leg or limb;
    • Severe brain injury;
    • Second- or third-degree burns;
    • Injuries producing blindness.

    Someone who has been deemed to have sustained a catastrophic injury may be eligible for permanent disability benefits through workers’ compensation.

    Other Financial Benefits and Resources for Injury-related Disabilities

    The following are other resources that someone with an injury-related disability may be able to utilize for financial support:

    Eligibility for these programs will vary; if you have questions about qualifying you can reach out to the contacts listed on each respective page listed above.

    Workplace Injury and Wrongful Death Lawsuits

    When a person dies while completing their work duties, their loved ones may be entitled to compensation. They will usually be able to get compensated in cases where it is determined that negligence on the part of the employer contributed to the employee’s death.

    Surviving loved ones can sue for compensation such as lost household wages, medical expenses, funeral expenses, and the financial support they need to cope with emotional distress. Family members can also sue for punitive damages in the event that a court determines the defendant acted in a reckless manner that directly contributed to the employee’s death.

    Legal Resources for Injured Employees

    A personal injury attorney is an invaluable consultation and defense resource for someone who has experienced an injury at work or elsewhere. Specific legal resources that may be more helpful to injured employees include:

    • Wrongful death attorneys: Wrongful death attorneys specialize in helping the loved ones of individuals who suffer fatalities resulting from employer negligence.
    • Maritime accident attorneys: Maritime accident attorneys specialize in helping people who sustain workplace injuries while working in the maritime industry.
    • Oilfield injury attorneys: Oilfield injury attorneys specialize in helping people who sustain workplace injuries while working in oilfields.
    • Offshore accident attorneys: Offshore accident attorneys specialize in helping people who sustain workplace injuries during offshore work activities.

    Further Resources for People With Disabilities

    Additional health resources for people with disabilities include:

    Request A Free Case Consultation Today!

    Complete the form below and we will reach out momentarily. We are available 24/7.

      300

      What Our Clients Are Saying

      Chris West is an excellent addition to the Morrow & Sheppard team. His skill set, dedication, and overall reliability he brings to the firm and clients are uncanny. You will not be disappointed.
      Candace M.
      Candace M.
      00:33 07 Sep 22
      I highly recommend the Morrow & Sheppard to anyone. They are an incredible group that did an outstanding job to make sure I got the highest settlement for my case. Attorney Daniel and his staff are all outstanding professionals with some serious case law knowledge and skill. His group went the... extra mile for me and because of that, my life has forever changed. Thank you Attorney Daniel and everyone that’s a part of his firm that worked so hard. I really appreciate you!read more
      Melis R.
      Melis R.
      20:36 25 Aug 22
      I am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Daniel Sheppard and Chris on my case. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Daniel would keep me up to date with the status of my case and Chris would also ensure all my paper work was submitted... in a timely manner. I am Very Happy with the Outcome! Thank you Daniel and Chris. I highly recommend their services and would not hesitate to use them again.read more
      D P.
      D P.
      15:43 07 Jul 22
      Very strong and courageous law firm I recommend to anyone who has suffered a injury from companies who need to be held responsible for lack of safety and security, my family is set for life and with these lawyers never backing down and fighting for truth behind every case and seeking the best... future for our family has given our family a second chance at being able to make it in life and holding companies accountable lifting burdens off our lives, very proud and beyond blessed to have had them fight the fight and have a tremendous outcome for our future. Along with a great and kind staff we HIGHLY recommend this law firm.read more
      Nikki L.
      Nikki L.
      23:11 13 May 22
      I was a client for 2.5 years after a car accident in 2019 and represented by Patrick McGinnis. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and level headed.His assisting paralegal, Ramona Anaya, was reliable, knowledgable, and kind in all our interactions.They went above and beyond to help me navigate... everything that unfolded after my car accident. They were able to secure a favorable settlement before trial.I’m very happy to have had Morrow&Sheppard Firm represent me.read more
      Marceline A.
      Marceline A.
      11:54 20 Mar 22
      Professional and knowledgeable with years of experience.
      angel martinez J.
      angel martinez J.
      20:04 08 Mar 22
      I had a accident and I chose morrow&sheppard they was great from the start to the finish Chris was real informative and helpful was the whole process and got me a fair settlement they really care about there Clients if you in a car accident call them
      Richard L.
      Richard L.
      18:15 03 Mar 22
      After a car accident last year I went to Morrow & Sheppard for assistance. Jose and Chris were exceptionally accommodating and handled my case with professionalism. They're primary concern was my well being and they went above and beyond to ensure I would receive the best settlement possible. A... very efficient and dedicated team!read more
      Amanda W.
      Amanda W.
      20:20 16 Feb 22
      I've been in the legal field for a while now and not only do I know John Sheppard & Nick Morrow, I have attorney friends that have worked with them throughout the years. This is a great firm and great people that work at Morrow & Sheppard. I have been reading the reviews on here and it makes me... happy to see that their clients think as highly of them as I do.read more
      Susan L.
      Susan L.
      00:17 15 Feb 22
      I was injured and my business closed down due to an accident in 2016. Daniel Sheppard became my greatest asset. He hired professional experts for their views and opinions as well as conducting numerous depositions. Daniel is hard working and no nonsense when handling your case. Daniel keeps you... informed on what's going on and what to expect. I'm from Louisiana and my case was in Texas. Daniel Sheppard worked alone side my other attorney Yuri Beck, and the both of them did a fantastic job representing me and settling my case. Daniel Sheppard of Morrow & Sheppard in Texas and Yuri Beck of Hunter & Beck in Louisiana are my lawyers for LIFE.read more
      Dale S.
      Dale S.
      14:24 04 Jan 22
      Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were the lead attorneys on my case to hold an apartment complex with inadequate security responsible for the death of my son. The two of them were focused and determined to represent me and my son's children with tenacity. As the case continued over time, it became... apparent that we were not merely clients that were a means to a financial end to them but people who had experienced a life changing and devastating loss. They realized that as a result of our loss, there needed to be accountability that could only be obtained through legal actions. Throughout the legal process, Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were not only professional and transparent but also compassionate and empathetic as they lead us through the difficult and sometimes confusing legal maze. Every person in their office that was involved with our case exemplified an extension of the genuine concern that began with attorneys Morrow and Sheppard. I have and will continue to recommend this firm to individuals who find themselves in need of legal representation.read more
      Rosie E.
      Rosie E.
      18:18 23 Nov 21
      The legal team at Morrow and Shepherd worked hard to help me win my case where a motorist who caused the accident changed her story and lied about the accident. A previous attorney kept telling me that I would probably have to pay some of the medical costs out of my own pocket.Daniel, my... attorney, assured me that he would it is best to make sure this did not happen and that he would fight to get me the best compensation possible. He was true to his word.I'm happy with their work, happy with the compensation and would definitely use them again.The Legal Assistant, Chris, was always professional, friendly and polite and a pleasure to work with.A big thanks to the team!Donread more
      Don D.
      Don D.
      01:52 21 Nov 21
      Nick and his group have helped where they can and are working hard to get a resolution to my injuries. I spoke with 4 different law firms prior to choosing Morrow & Sheppard LLP.ThanksJeff
      Jeff N.
      Jeff N.
      19:28 18 Nov 21
      I was referred to Daniel Sheppard because of a car accident I had been in. I was very impressed with how he told me about the process of how things worked and the things to expect. He was very forth coming and always supportive. The experience was a positive one and ended on a great note! I highly... recommend him.Elizabeth Varonread more
      Elizabeth Swanson V.
      Elizabeth Swanson V.
      01:25 03 Sep 21
      Before I engaged John Sheppard, I was concerned that I might lose my case. However, John came onboard, turned things around, and set me on a good course to win. He got up to speed quickly on the facts and determined exactly what we needed to do. He is great at strategy, filing discovery and... other motions, and arguing before the court. I was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. If you need legal help in a personal injury action, commercial law or whatever, hire him immediately! He is a pleasure to work with, will thoroughly explain all to you in a manner you can understand, and will get you the best possible outcome. A+++read more
      Christine E.
      Christine E.
      01:20 11 May 21
      I was seriously injured and they represented me and I was so happy with the outcome and would recommend them to any others seeking professional lawyers. They also set me up with the best doctors. My son and I have now put this lawsuit behind us thanks to Morrow & Sheppard.
      BB C.
      BB C.
      18:53 22 Apr 21
      Phenomenal lawyer. I can not heap enough praise on these guys,.
      Stephen T.
      Stephen T.
      03:28 04 Nov 20
      Nick Morrow is a GREAT lawyer that really knows his job. He made me feel comfortable about hiring him to handle my case. He’s trustworthy and very compassionate about his work. His staff is awesome also, everyone was nice and friendly to me when I visited the office. The settlement I received... exceeded my expectations, it was four times what I expected. I would highly recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone needing legal representation. Thanks again Nick!!read more
      III 4.
      III 4.
      21:08 27 May 20
      I was injured working offshore. Morrow & Sheppard handled my maritime case and won a great settlement for me. If you have been injured at work, Morrow & Sheppard are great offshore injury lawyers.
      tim C.
      tim C.
      02:19 30 Nov 19
      Morrow & Sheppard won my family a multimillion dollar settlement in a wrongful death case after my kids’ father died. The settlement money will help make sure my family is taken care of, and that my kids can go to college. If you have a wrongful death case or a loved one dies at work, call Morrow... & Sheppard. They will take care of you.read more
      Dwana M.
      Dwana M.
      16:26 27 Nov 19
      Morrow & Sheppard helped me when my employer breached my contract. They took the case from start to finish, and won our trial. If you’ve been injured or wronged at work, call Morrow & Sheppard.
      Ky Evans - Celebrity Strength Coach (The LIFT L.
      Ky Evans - Celebrity Strength Coach (The LIFT L.
      22:53 14 Nov 19
      I suffered a work injury when the work vehicle I was riding in was involved in an accident with another car. Morrow & Sheppard took my case and won a great settlement for me. If you need a work injury attorney, I highly recommend Morrow & Sheppard.
      Dinah R.
      Dinah R.
      00:39 12 Nov 19
      Nick Morrow and John Sheppard are the best. I was paralyzed in a work injury. Several other lawyers turned down my case. Morrow & Sheppard hired expensive experts, took dozens of depositions, and proved my case. I saw them in court against a team of defense lawyers, and the defense lawyers... didn’t stand a chance. Morrow & Sheppard took my case all the way when nobody else would. Now my family is set up for life. Throughout the process, they kept me updated and made me feel like I was more than a number. I still talk to Nick to this day. Morrow & Sheppard exceeded my expectations in every way, and I cannot recommend them enough. If you are injured at work, call Morrow & Sheppard.read more
      jeff H.
      jeff H.
      23:20 17 Oct 18
      Nick Morrow represented me in a commercial dispute and achieved a positive and quick resolution. Both Nick Morrow and John Sheppard have the background, determination, dedication and passion that is critical when choosing legal representation. I highly recommend them for your legal needs.
      Sallie M.
      Sallie M.
      18:55 01 Aug 15
      Morrow & Sheppard is a great law firm. Both Nick and John are excellent attorneys that aggressively and zealously pursue their clients' claims.
      Yusuf B.
      Yusuf B.
      15:44 22 Jul 15
      John Sheppard, with Morrow & Sheppard LLP, is brilliant. On more than one occasion, he successfully represented various affiliated companies I was part of. John is very diligent, thorough and fights hard for righteousness. There were numerous times that he helped us through extremely difficult... moments. John is very professional, responsive and respectful. I highly endorse Morrow and Sheppard LLP for legal representation and/or legal assistance needs.read more
      Don K.
      Don K.
      21:19 15 Jul 15
      John and Nick are well trained, experienced, smart and most importantly, tenaciously dedicated to their clients' interests. They will get the job done right.
      Andy P.
      Andy P.
      18:41 14 Jul 15
      Should I ever need an attorney Morrow & Sheppard will be my first call. Having known them both for many years now I know the passion and dedication that they both have toward their work. They both have a solid background that helps them to meet any needs that clients may have. I would recommend... them to anyone in need of an attorney.read more
      Keith C.
      Keith C.
      16:39 14 Jul 15
      My experience with John, at Morrow and Sheppard, during my company’s litigation was better than I could have imagined (considering the circumstances of being involved in litigation). What stood out to me the most, was John’s tenacity in preparation. I later realized this came from two places, one... he didn’t want to lose and two (and most importantly) he CARED so much about me getting justice. I cannot stress this enough, when you are dealing with a lawyer that truly cares, then all of the other stresses I had around the case seemed to go away. I was always kept up to date with what was going on in our case, and he always made it very clear he was just an email or call away! In addition to these attributes, he also knows the law and is willing to fight for what is right! It would be tough to find another lawyer that is as highly effective, skilled, knowledgeable, ethical and has such an impeccable reputation (which is well deserved). I would recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone seeking out a law firm, in the event they needed counsel.read more
      Brian R
      Brian R
      16:04 14 Jul 15
      Nick and John are a great team. They are both honest, trustworthy and have a tenacious work ethic on behalf of their clients. They stand behind these qualities, having left partnerships at great law firms to commit 100% to achieving results for individuals and businesses. They will fight for... you and I'm proud to call them clients and friends.read more
      Jim B.
      Jim B.
      13:58 13 Jul 15
      I cannot think of anyone I would trust more for legal advice. First class attorneys.
      Claire M.
      Claire M.
      04:13 11 Jul 15
      John and Nick are outstanding lawyers. They are both extremely sharp, skilled, hard-working, and passionate about what they do. I would highly recommend either of them to anyone looking for high-level service that also happens to be affordable.
      Will M.
      Will M.
      22:08 10 Jul 15
      I've known Nick for many years; he's a first-class person in all regards and I would absolutely recommend him to anybody with legal needs.
      Dan E.
      Dan E.
      14:42 01 Jul 15
      Nick's an outstanding lawyer and an even better person. I would recommend Morrow & Sheppard to anyone seeking legal representation.
      Billy O.
      Billy O.
      23:07 30 Jun 15
      I have known Nick Morrow for many years, and he is incredibly trustworthy, intelligent, and generally one of the best people I know. Without question, I would recommend him and his firm to anyone needing legal representation.
      Koetting J.
      Koetting J.
      22:26 30 Jun 15
      Morrow and Sheppard represented my business in a dispute and was able to quickly and successfully achieve a settlement. The attention to detail and timely work was very beneficial to us. I highly recommend Morrow & Sheppard.
      Matt G.
      Matt G.
      14:40 26 Jun 15
      Best injury lawyers around. Honest attorneys; tenacious on behalf of their clients.
      Chris D.
      Chris D.
      21:38 25 Jun 15
      Thoughtful, hardworking, brilliant. These guys are the real deal.
      Annie E.
      Annie E.
      17:33 24 Jun 15
      Morrow & Sheppard would be my first call for legal assistance. I have known Nick Morrow for years and I cannot say enough positive things about him. He is smart, dedicated, ethical, dependable, and very thorough with every client. I would strongly recommend this firm to anyone looking for top of... the line legal assistance.read more
      Anne Louise C.
      Anne Louise C.
      15:28 24 Jun 15
      Morrow & Sheppard LLP is an outstanding law firm. I have known Nick Morrow for many years. He is honest, hardworking, and very attentive to his clients. I could not recommend him enough for your legal needs.
      Caroline B.
      Caroline B.
      21:25 23 Jun 15
      Nick Morrow represented my hospital in a rather messy multi-party contractual dispute between our landlord and a third party tenant that ended in a favorable outcome for our side. Throughout the process Nick provided excellent follow-up, strategic insight, and guidance. I would highly recommend... Morrow and Sheppard for legal services.read more
      Sam R.
      Sam R.
      21:05 23 Jun 15
      Nick Morrow and John Sheppard are extremely knowledgeable, hard-working, and attentive. They go above and beyond to meet the needs of each and every client. I highly recommend this law firm for your next case.
      Megan M.
      Megan M.
      16:17 23 Jun 15
      Nick Morrow is an extremely trustworthy, smart, and loyal individual. I would highly recommend his firm to anyone needing legal assistance.
      Kendall M.
      Kendall M.
      14:58 23 Jun 15
      I know Nick Morrow to be an extremely trustworthy and compassionate individual who represents his clients with utmost respect and persistence. Without hesitation, I would recommend Morrow & Sheppard to anyone needing legal advice or counsel.
      Mollie S.
      Mollie S.
      16:18 22 Jun 15
      I've known Nick Morrow for many years now and know there isn't a more loyal, hard-working, or trustworthy attorney out there. I would highly recommend him and his team to anyone in need of an attorney that gets results.
      Mike V.
      Mike V.
      15:44 22 Jun 15
      Morrow & Sheppard are second to none. Nick and John are a class act. My experience with the firm could not have been better.
      Jeffrey W.
      Jeffrey W.
      20:10 19 Jun 15
      The dedication and hard work of Morrow & Sheppard are second to none. One of the brightest and exceptionally run firms out there. I highly recommend them.
      James J.
      James J.
      19:57 19 Jun 15
      js_loader

      We Get Results

      0
      Maritime Lawsuit
      0
      Traumatic Brain Injury – Oilfield Injury
      0
      Oil & Gas Burn Injury

      Recent Personal Injury Blog

      Go to Top