St. Louis Workers' Comp Lawyers

Did you or a loved one sustain a workplace accident or injury? If so, you’re not alone. These incidents can happen to anyone, and when they do, you should receive proper financial support from your employer and its insurance company. Often, receiving the benefits you deserve requires professional legal representation. That’s where The Bruning Law Firm comes in.

If you or your loved one suffered a workplace injury or illness, our St. Louis workers’ compensation attorneys from The Bruning Law Firm can pursue your benefits and maximize your claim. With over 40 years of collective experience, our lawyers have helped countless injured workers receive the financial compensation they deserve.

Contact our office now to discuss how we might assist with your specific situation. Consultations are always free with no obligation.

Why Choose The Bruning Law Firm?

The Bruning Law Firm is a top choice for victims of workplace accidents and injuries in the St. Louis area. With our extensive experience and knowledge of workers’ compensation law, we are dedicated to providing skilled legal representation to every client.

With more than 40 years of experience successfully representing clients in personal injury cases, our attorneys have handled a variety of claims.

Our team at The Bruning Law Firm understands the issues that might arise in workers’ compensation claims and fights for every client to receive the benefits they deserve. We have a proven track record of success, with many satisfied clients who have received fair benefits and settlements for their injuries.

When it comes to protecting the rights of workers in St. Louis, The Bruning Law Firm is the name to trust.

The Bruning Law Firm takes a smarter approach to each case, ensuring our clients receive fair results. Our commitment to excellence is evident with over 450 five-star reviews from satisfied clients.

Our focus is always on our clients. We recognize that behind every case, a real person with real problems needs help. From the person who answers the phone to the attorney who manages your case, everyone at the firm is dedicated to understanding your unique situation and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

We also have an office just off Olive Boulevard in Creve Coeur to more conveniently serve injured workers and other clients in St. Louis County.

There is no reason to wait, as our St. Louis workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to assist you.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a critical protection for employees who suffer injuries or illnesses as a result of their work. This insurance provides financial benefits and medical treatment to workers who suffered an injury on the job or develop work-related illnesses. It helps cover medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation costs while protecting employers from lawsuits.

In St. Louis, workers’ compensation laws are in place to ensure that employees injured on the job receive the necessary medical care and compensation for their injuries. These laws require employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage and establish a system for filing claims and resolving disputes.

Under St. Louis workers’ compensation laws, an injured worker is entitled to benefits regardless of fault. This means that even if the worker is partially responsible for the accident that caused their injuries, they may still receive benefits. These laws also cover occupational diseases that develop over time due to work-related activities.

What is a Workers’ Comp Injury?

A workers’ compensation injury refers to any injury or illness occurring while an employee performs their job duties. This can include accidents, such as slips and falls, as well as injuries caused by repetitive motions or exposure to harmful substances.

Unlike personal injury claims, workers’ compensation claims do not require the injured worker to prove their employer was at fault. Instead, workers’ compensation provides benefits to employees who suffered an injury on the job, regardless of who caused the accident or injury.

What is Your Workers’ Comp Injury Worth?

Determining the value of a workers’ compensation claim is a complex process that takes into account your medical treatment and how much work your injury caused you to miss. Further, you can receive greater benefits if you suffer a disabling condition that keeps you from returning to work in the future.

Benefits should cover all the treatment you need for your injuries or illness, from emergency care to ongoing physical therapy or medications. You should also receive partial wage replacement for the hours, days, or weeks you were away from work. If you suffered a job-related disability, our attorneys can determine what your future disability benefits should look like.

The Experience of the Lawyer You Hire Matters

The experience of the workers’ compensation lawyer you hire is critical in a successful workers’ comp claim. Our experienced attorneys know how to handle the legal process from beginning to end, building a strong claim, and negotiating with insurance companies to achieve the best possible outcome. Our attorneys at The Bruning Law Firm have the knowledge and experience to handle even the most challenging workers’ comp cases.

Our St. Louis workers’ comp lawyers will manage the legal process and advocate for the best possible outcome for our injured clients. We explore every option for compensation following a workplace accident.

Possible Third-Party Claims After a Work Injury

Work injuries should be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, there are situations where a third party may also be liable for your injuries. While you cannot sue your employer for negligence, you might sue parties unaffiliated with your employer if they caused your accident and injuries.

Third-party claims can provide you with additional compensation, including for pain and suffering, total lost income, and more.

One example of a third-party claim is when a defective product causes your work injury. If a piece of defective equipment malfunctions due to a manufacturing or design flaw, you may have a claim against the product manufacturer. This can result in compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Another example is when a motor vehicle accident occurs while you are on the job. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to pursue a car accident claim against that driver. In this case involving motor vehicle accidents while on the job, you could potentially recover damages not covered by workers’ compensation, such as property damage and emotional distress.

At The Bruning Law Firm, our workers’ compensation attorneys always examine whether you have a third-party claim, and we can handle both aspects of your case.

Workplace Injury Statistics

Workplace injuries remain a significant public health concern across the United States and here in St. Louis. Understanding the scale of the problem helps injured workers recognize that they are not alone and that the workers’ compensation system exists for good reason.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), private industry employers reported approximately 2.5 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2024. The incidence rate was 2.3 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. Tragically, 5,070 workers suffered fatal work injuries that same year, underscoring the life-and-death stakes of workplace safety.

The National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI) estimates that roughly 4.9 million workers’ compensation claims are filed annually nationwide, with total workers’ comp payouts reaching approximately $62 billion per year, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). These figures reflect the enormous financial impact workplace injuries have on employees, employers, and the insurance system.

The most common causes of nonfatal workplace injuries include overexertion and bodily reaction (such as lifting, pushing, or repetitive motions), falls, slips, and trips, and contact with objects and equipment. The most frequently reported injury type across all industries is sprains, strains, and tears, which can range from minor soft-tissue damage to debilitating conditions requiring surgery and extended rehabilitation. If you have suffered any type of workplace injury in St. Louis, our workers’ compensation attorneys can help you pursue the benefits you deserve.

Types of Work-Related Injuries

St. Louis sees its fair share of workplace injuries like any other city. Understanding the common types of injuries that occur can help employees take proactive measures to prevent them.

Some of the most frequently encountered workplace injuries in St. Louis include:

• Slips, trips, and falls: These can occur due to wet or slippery surfaces, uneven flooring, or inadequate lighting, and may result in traumatic brain injuries.
• Repetitive strain injuries: Workers who perform repetitive tasks, such as typing or lifting heavy objects, may develop conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or back injuries.
• Machinery and equipment accidents: Employees working with machinery and equipment are at risk of accidents, such as getting caught in moving parts or struck by falling objects.
• Construction site accidents: Construction workers face daily hazards that could cause a construction site accident like falls from heights, electrocution, and being struck by objects.
• Work-related illnesses: Exposure to harmful substances and hazardous conditions can lead to respiratory problems, skin diseases, and occupational cancers.

These injuries can have long-term effects on a worker’s health and ability to perform their job. In some cases, they may result in permanent disabilities or the need for extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Missouri Workers’ Compensation Benefits Explained

Missouri law provides several categories of workers’ compensation benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Understanding the types of benefits available can help you evaluate whether you are receiving everything you are entitled to under the law. Our St. Louis workers’ compensation lawyers fight to maximize every category of benefits for our clients.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD)

If your work injury prevents you from performing any work while you recover, you may be entitled to Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits. TTD pays two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state-mandated minimum and maximum amounts. These benefits can continue for up to 400 weeks while you remain unable to work due to your injury. TTD benefits typically begin after a three-day waiting period, though if your disability lasts more than 14 days, you may receive retroactive payment for those initial days.

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)

When a worker can return to light-duty or modified work but earns less than their pre-injury wages, Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits make up a portion of the difference. TPD provides partial wage replacement to bridge the gap between your reduced earnings and your normal pay, helping you maintain financial stability while you continue to heal.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

If your work injury results in a lasting impairment but does not completely prevent you from working, you may receive Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits. PPD is typically paid as a lump sum based on the body part affected and the percentage of impairment as rated by your treating physician. Missouri uses a schedule of disabilities that assigns a specific number of weeks of compensation to each body part, and the value of your PPD award depends on your disability rating, your average weekly wage, and the nature of the injured body part.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

In the most severe cases, a work injury may leave an employee completely unable to return to any type of gainful employment. Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits provide weekly payments for life to workers who can no longer earn a living due to their workplace injuries. PTD is reserved for cases where the worker’s disability is so extensive that no employer would reasonably be expected to hire them in the open labor market.

Medical Benefits

Workers’ compensation in Missouri covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury. This includes emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, diagnostic imaging, and any other treatment your doctor deems necessary for your recovery. The employer or its insurance carrier initially has the right to choose your treating physician, though injured workers can request a change of provider through proper channels.

Vocational Rehabilitation

When a workplace injury prevents you from returning to your previous occupation, Missouri’s workers’ compensation system may provide vocational rehabilitation services. These services can include job retraining, skills assessment, resume assistance, and job placement help. Vocational rehabilitation benefits are generally capped at $5,000 unless the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) approves additional funding based on the circumstances of your case.

Fighting the Insurance Company After Suffering a Work Injury

After suffering a work injury, insurance companies may try to minimize or deny benefits to protect their own interests. Injury victims should know their rights and be prepared to fight back against insurance company tactics.

One of the most effective strategies is to hire our skilled workers’ comp attorneys from The Bruning Law Firm to advocate for your rights and negotiate with the insurance company. An attorney experienced in workers’ compensation law understands the tactics by insurance companies and can build a solid case to support your claim.

It’s not uncommon for workers’ comp insurance companies to try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. They may argue that your injury is not work-related or downplay its severity. This is where having a skilled workers’ comp attorney on your side can make all the difference.

The Bruning Law Firm has a reputation for successfully fighting insurance companies to ensure their clients receive fair and just compensation. We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf. We negotiate with insurance companies and do not back down, fighting for every dollar you deserve. We will not hesitate to take your case to court to protect your rights if necessary.

What to Do After Suffering a Work Injury

If you have suffered a workplace injury or illness, be sure to take certain steps to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.

Here are the necessary actions to take after suffering a workplace injury:

• Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. This ensures that there is a record of the incident and allows for the initiation of the workers’ compensation process.
• Continue with necessary follow-up medical appointments to document the extent of your injuries and receive appropriate treatment.
• Adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding work limitations and activities to avoid exacerbating your injuries.
• Preserve evidence related to your injury. This can include obtaining a copy of any police or incident reports, taking photos of the accident scene, or gathering witness statements.
• Keep detailed records of your medical treatments, expenses, and more.
• Consult our experienced St. Louis workers’ comp attorneys at The Bruning Law Firm to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the benefits you deserve.

Missouri Workers’ Comp Filing Deadlines

Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits, so understanding Missouri’s time limits is critical. Under RSMo 287.420, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident or the date you became aware of a work-related condition. Failure to provide timely notice can jeopardize your claim, though exceptions may apply in certain circumstances.

Under RSMo 287.430, the standard statute of limitations to file a formal Claim for Compensation with the Division of Workers’ Compensation is two years from the date of injury or from the date of the last payment of compensation, whichever is later. If your employer failed to file the required report of injury with the Division, the deadline extends to three years. For occupational diseases that develop gradually over time, the two-year clock begins running from the date you knew or should have known that your condition was work-related. Because these deadlines are strictly enforced, it is important to contact a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible after your injury to protect your rights.

FAQs About St. Louis Workers’ Comp Lawyers

The answers below address common Missouri workers’ compensation questions about retaliation, uninsured employers, pre-existing conditions, denied claims, doctor choice, and benefits after a workplace injury.

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Additional Workers’ Comp Questions

Can I Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim in Missouri?

No. Missouri law explicitly prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file workers’ compensation claims. Under RSMo 287.780, it is unlawful for an employer to discharge, threaten, or discriminate against an employee solely because they exercised their right to file a workers’ comp claim or testified in a workers’ compensation proceeding. If your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim, you may have grounds for a separate retaliatory discharge lawsuit, which can result in additional damages including lost wages, reinstatement, and reasonable attorney fees.

What If My Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Comp Insurance?

Missouri law requires most employers with five or more employees (or any employer in the construction industry) to carry workers’ compensation insurance. When an employer illegally operates without coverage, they lose most of their legal defenses against injury claims. Specifically, an uninsured employer cannot assert the defenses of contributory negligence, assumption of risk, or the fellow-servant doctrine. This means you may be able to sue your employer directly in civil court for the full extent of your damages, which could include compensation beyond what workers’ comp typically provides, such as pain and suffering.

Can I Get Workers’ Comp for a Pre-Existing Condition?

Yes, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits even if you had a pre-existing condition, provided your work injury aggravated, accelerated, or worsened that condition. Under RSMo 287.020, to qualify for workers’ comp benefits in Missouri, the work-related injury must be the “prevailing factor” in causing the medical condition and resulting disability. This means your work activities must be the primary cause of the condition that now requires treatment. Our attorneys at The Bruning Law Firm understand how to build strong cases connecting your current symptoms to workplace activities, even when a pre-existing condition is involved.

What Is Missouri’s Second Injury Fund?

Missouri’s Second Injury Fund, established under RSMo 287.220, provides additional benefits when a new work injury combines with a prior disability to create a greater overall level of impairment. The fund was created to encourage employers to hire workers with pre-existing disabilities by spreading the cost of combined disabilities. If you had a previous injury or condition and then suffered a new work-related injury that together produce a more significant disability, you may be entitled to additional compensation from the Second Injury Fund on top of the benefits paid by your employer’s insurance carrier.

Can I See My Own Doctor for a Workers’ Comp Injury?

In Missouri, the employer typically has the right to select the treating physician for a workers’ compensation injury. However, this does not mean you are permanently locked into seeing a doctor chosen by your employer or their insurance company. You have the right to request a change of physician through the Division of Workers’ Compensation if you are dissatisfied with your care or believe the employer-selected doctor is not acting in your best interest. An experienced workers’ comp attorney can advise you on when and how to request a change to help ensure you receive appropriate medical treatment.

What If My Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied?

A denied workers’ comp claim is not the end of the road. Nationally, an estimated 7 to 13 percent of workers’ compensation claims are initially denied, and research shows that approximately 67 percent of denied claims are later overturned and result in payment of benefits. If your claim is denied, you have the right to file a Claim for Compensation with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation, which initiates a formal dispute resolution process. This process may involve mediation, a settlement conference, or a hearing before an administrative law judge. Our St. Louis workers’ compensation lawyers have extensive experience fighting denied claims and recovering benefits that injured workers were initially told they could not receive.

Missouri Workers’ Compensation Case Results

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Did You Suffer a Workplace Injury or Illness? Contact The Bruning Law Firm Today

If you suffered a workplace injury in St. Louis, don’t hesitate to contact The Bruning Law Firm for skilled legal representation. Our team of experienced workers’ comp attorneys will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the benefits and possible third-party compensation you deserve for your injuries.

With our comprehensive knowledge of workers’ compensation law and commitment to our clients, The Bruning Law Firm is the right choice for victims of workplace accidents and injuries in St. Louis.

Contact us today at (314) 735-8100 for your free consultation and discuss your case with us. There’s no fee unless we win, ensuring you don’t have any additional stress about your financial burdens. We are ready to protect your future.

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Workers’ Compensation Resources

Learn more about workers’ compensation claims and your legal options with these helpful resources:

• Average Workers’ Comp for Back Injuries
• How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
• Filing a Third-Party Lawsuit After a Workers’ Comp Injury
• How Can I Fight a Denied Workers’ Comp Claim?
• Workers’ Comp and Third-Party Lawsuits
• Workers’ Comp and Disability After an Accident
• 5 Reasons Why You Need Workers Compensation Attorneys
• How Long Does a Workers’ Compensation Claim Take?
• What Does a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Do?
• When Should You Return to Work After a Workers’ Comp Injury?

Client Testimonial

“When other law firms failed me. Bruning Law Firm came through for me. They did a great job and were able to get me more compensation than I expected. Couldn’t be more pleased. Truly glad these folks were there for me. Took care of everything. Truly pleased. Thank you Ryan and Alice.” – Joseph F.

Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 2020
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