Hurt at Work? We Fight for Idaho’s Injured Workers.
When a work injury turns your life upside down, the insurance company isn’t on your side — they have lawyers working to minimize what you receive. At Goicoechea Law, we level the playing field. We represent injured workers before the Idaho Industrial Commission at every stage, from initial claims through Idaho Supreme Court appeals.
If you’ve been hurt on the job, contact us today for a free case evaluation. No fee unless we win.
What Qualifies as a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Any injury that occurs while you are performing an assigned task for your employer — no matter where that task takes place — may qualify as a workers’ compensation claim. Many illnesses, known as occupational diseases, may also be covered if they are caused by your working conditions.
Common work injury claims we handle include:
- Back and spine injuries
- Shoulder and knee injuries
- Head and brain injuries
- Amputations and paraplegia
- Occupational disease claims
- Denied or disputed claims
- Permanent impairment and disability ratings
- Retraining benefits
Steps to Take After a Work Injury
Taking the right steps immediately after a work injury protects your rights and your claim.
- Report the injury to your supervisor immediately. Even if it seems minor, report it. Delays in reporting can jeopardize your claim.
- Ask your employer to file a Notice of Injury with the Idaho Industrial Commission.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Tell your doctor exactly how the injury happened and where it hurts.
- Follow your doctor’s orders and ask specifically about work restrictions.
- Don’t sign anything from the insurance company without speaking to an attorney first.
- Contact Goicoechea Law if your claim is denied, disputed, or if you’re unsure of your rights.
What Benefits Are You Entitled To?
Idaho workers’ compensation covers a range of benefits for injured workers:
Medical Benefits: The insurance company must pay for all medical expenses related to your injury — including emergency care, surgery, doctor visits, physical therapy, prescriptions, and prosthetic devices. Be careful about changing physicians without a referral or written approval from the insurance company.
Wage Loss Benefits: If you are unable to work, you are entitled to a percentage of your gross income while you remain under medical care and unable to return to work.
Permanent Impairment and Disability: If your injury results in permanent limitations, you may be entitled to a disability rating that accounts for your physical condition, age, education, work history, and the job market.
Retraining Benefits: If you cannot return to your time-of-injury employment, you may be entitled to up to two years of retraining benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is covered by Idaho Workers’ Compensation?
Anyone who works for wages — whether for a public entity or private business. Nearly every employed worker in Idaho is covered, with very few exceptions.
What if my employer denies my claim?
A denied claim is not the end of the road. We represent injured workers in disputed claims before the Idaho Industrial Commission and, when necessary, on appeal to the Idaho Supreme Court.
Can I choose my own doctor?
You may change physicians, but it is important to have a referral from your treating physician or written approval from the insurance company first. Changing doctors without authorization may jeopardize your medical benefits. Always consult with your attorney before making a change.
Should I accept a settlement offer?
Not without careful consideration and legal advice. Settlement offers are often based on an impairment rating that does not account for your age, education, and work experience. Once you settle, you generally cannot reopen your claim — even if your condition worsens.
What is the time limit to file a claim?
In Idaho, if no benefits were paid, you generally have one year from the date of injury to start legal action. Occupational disease claims have different deadlines. Do not wait — contact us for a free case evaluation.
Can I sue my employer for more than workers’ compensation?
In most cases, workers’ compensation is your exclusive remedy against your employer. However, if a defective product or a third party caused your injury, you may have additional claims. We will evaluate your situation and advise you of all available options.
Call Us Today — Free Case Evaluation
If you’ve been hurt at work in Idaho, do not wait. Call Michael Kessinger at Goicoechea Law for a free, confidential case review. No fee unless we win.
208.743.2313 | 826 Main Street, Lewiston, Idaho 83501