Mark Lindquist is a hero for attempting to save three mentally disabled adults from a tornado that hit Joplin, Missouri in May of this year. The tornado spawned 200 mph winds, causing massive destruction in the Missouri region. Mr. Lindquist suffered extensive injuries during the rescue, including multiple broken ribs, a badly broken shoulder, and the loss of most of his teeth. Mr. Lindquist was in a coma for nearly two months as a result of neurological injuries.
Mark Lindquist has incurred over $2.5 million in medical expenses. His extensive injuries require over ten prescription medications, and he will likely require further surgery.
Despite the nature of his injury, Lindquist has no assistance paying for his medical expenses. Mr. Lindquist's salary as a social worker barely exceeded minimum wage. As such, he was unable to afford medical insurance. Mr. Lindquist filed for workers' compensation but was his claim was denied.
Accident Fund Insurance Company denied the worker's compensation claim on the basis that Mr. Lindquist was in no greater risk of danger than the general public in his capacity as a social worker during the tornado. The Defendants' denial of the claim has drawn intense media scrutiny given the magnitude of the coverage of the storm. Furthermore, only 8 workers' compensation claims were denied out of 132 that were filed as a result of the tornado.
Although Lindquist may appeal or file additional claims of relief with different organizations in Missouri, Lindquist's case illustrates the importance of finding a competent Charlotte attorney to pursue your workers' compensation case. Competent counsel will be able to pinpoint the nuances of your case to strengthen the claim, as well as find additional avenues to seek relief in the event a workers' compensation claim is declined. It is important to note that, while Mr. Lindquist's claim has drawn the Media's attention, numerous claims are denied daily by insurance companies which recieve no such attention. These injured workers deserve the same dilligent, competent legal representation.
CharlotteObserver.com, Joplin hero denied workers' compensation, 10/24/11
Leave a comment