Injured On The Job? 4 Steps That Will Help You Avoid Problems With Your Worker's Compensation Claim
If you've been injured in a work-related accident, you're going to require medical and financial assistance. That's where worker's compensation comes in. Worker's compensation is designed to provide you with the assistance you'll need while you're unable to work. Unfortunately, problems can – and do – arise when mistakes are made in your worker's compensation case. To ensure that you receive the benefits you're entitled to, here are four steps you should take to avoid problems with your worker's compensation case.
Report Your Injury in a Timely Manner
As soon as you're injured, you need to report the incident to your employer. This is important even if you don't think the injuries are serious enough to warrant a worker's compensation claim. Even a minor injury can develop into something much worse if left untreated. Unfortunately, if you haven't reported the incident, your employer – and the insurance company – may try to deny your claim. If that happens, you could find yourself fighting for benefits for a serious injury that leaves you unable to work.
Follow Up with Your Employer
If you've been injured on the job, one of the worst things you can do is trust your employer to take care of everything for you. On-the-job injuries can cause insurance premiums to increase. Your employer is going to be trying to keep that from happening. Once you've reported the incident, continue to follow up with your employer to ensure they're taking the necessary steps to ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to.
Give Complete Details to Your Doctor
When you go to see the doctor for your injuries, be sure to give complete details. The insurance company is going to use those medical records to determine the amount of benefits you should receive – including monetary payments and possible vocational training, should your injuries prevent you from returning to your present job. If you've left important details out, your doctor won't be able to provide a thorough report to the insurance company. You can prevent mistakes by giving your doctor a complete list of the problems you're experiencing as a result of your injuries. Some of the details should include:
- How much pain you're experiencing
- How the injuries are affecting your ability to care for yourself
- How your injuries are affecting your family life
Hire an Attorney
If you've been injured on the job, you need to hire a worker's compensation attorney as soon as possible. The insurance company is going to have attorneys working to limit the amount of benefits you receive. You're going to need your own attorney to fight for your rights as an injured worker. Not only that, but you might be entitled to benefits that you're not aware of. Your attorney will help ensure that benefits aren't overlooked.
Now that you've suffered work-related injuries, don't take chances with your worker's compensation benefits. The tips provided here will ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.