Columbia is powered by a diverse workforce. From the nurses and staff at our major hospitals to the educators at the university and the folks keeping our local manufacturing and logistics hubs running, this city doesn’t stop. But with hard work comes the risk of injury. When you are hurt on the job, the “Home Field Advantage” means knowing exactly how Missouri law works and refusing to let your employer or their insurance company dictate your recovery.
The Clock Starts Ticking Immediately
The biggest mistake we see injured workers make is waiting to report an injury. In Missouri, the law is strict. You generally have 30 days to report your injury to your employer in writing. If you miss this window, you risk losing your right to benefits entirely.
Do not rely on a verbal comment to your shift supervisor. Make sure there is a paper trail. Whether you tweaked your back lifting a patient or slipped on a wet floor in a warehouse, report it immediately. The insurance companies are looking for any reason to deny your claim, and a delay in reporting is the first thing they will use against you.
The “Company Doctor” Trap
One of the most frustrating aspects of Missouri Workers’ Compensation law for our clients is the medical treatment rule. Unlike personal injury cases where you can see your own physician, in a Workers’ Comp claim, your employer (and their insurer) typically has the right to choose the doctor you see.
This creates an inherent conflict of interest. The doctor is being paid by the insurance company, which often leads to “conservative” treatment plans. You might be sent back to work before you are ready, or told your severe pain is just a “sprain” that will heal with ice. If you feel your injury is being downplayed or if you are being rushed back to the job site while still in pain, you need an advocate who can push back and demand a second opinion or independent evaluation where the law allows.
Common Risks in Columbia
We see specific types of injuries frequently in the Columbia area. Healthcare workers often suffer from repetitive strain or lifting injuries that can end a career if not treated properly. Construction and utility workers face falls and equipment hazards. Even office environments can lead to debilitating carpal tunnel or slip-and-fall injuries.
Regardless of the industry, the goal of the insurance company remains the same: close the file as cheaply as possible. They may try to argue that your injury was pre-existing or that it wasn’t the “prevailing factor” in your disability. This is legal jargon designed to save them money.
Leveling the Playing Field
You don’t have to navigate this system alone. At Sticklen & Sticklen, we know the local industries and we know the tactics insurers use to undervalue claims. We fight to ensure you get the full benefits you are entitled to, including medical coverage, temporary total disability (TTD) payments for missed work, and a fair settlement for any permanent damage.
If you have been injured at work, come see us at our Columbia office on West Nifong Boulevard. We will review your case for free and help you determine the best path forward to protect your livelihood.