Did you know that almost 2.7 million nonfatal illnesses and injuries happen in the workplace each year? If you’ve been injured at your job, you might be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ comp laws are designed to protect workers, giving them financial support if they get hurt while at the job.
Filing workers’ compensation claims can be complicated. Your worker’s compensation claim documents must get filled out correctly. Failing to do so could result in the process taking a while or you not receiving benefits.
This guide will discuss the top five common mistakes when filing a workers’ compensation claim. We’ll also discuss the benefits of parenting with a worker’s compensation lawyer.
1. Not Reporting Your Accident Quickly
Missing the claim filing deadline is one of the most common mistakes in filing a workers’ compensation claim. You must report your accident or illness to your employer immediately. It’s recommended to report it within five days.
You’ll also need a written report. A verbal report isn’t enough. In your written report, you should include the following:
- What caused your injury
- The extent of your injury
- When your injury happened
2. Not Being Detailed Enough
You need to gather enough proof and evidence for your claim to be successful. If the incident isn’t documented well enough, it’s your word against your employer’s insurance company.
You should take pictures and videos when the incident happens. Get information from those who witnessed the incident. Ask them to make a signed statement.
3. Failing to Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
The claim filing process can be lengthy and complicated. To receive the maximum compensation possible, you should partner with a workers’ comp lawyer.
A workers’ comp attorney has expertise in the field. They also know the laws and regulations surrounding our case.
Most workers’ compensation attornies won’t charge you an upfront fee. They charge on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay unless you receive a settlement. You can find out more information on their website.
4. Signing an Agreement Saying You Won’t File a Claim
Some employers might try to take advantage of an injured or disoriented worker. Your employer might ask you to sign an agreement saying you won’t file a claim. However, your employer can’t ask you to sign an agreement like that.
You have the right to refuse to sign an agreement stating you won’t file a claim. Employers typically take this route so their insurance premiums won’t increase. They also might have you sign this agreement, so they don’t have a big insurance payout.
5. Coming Back to Work Early
It can take a long time to heal and recover from a workplace injury or illness. This is especially true if you’ve suffered a severe injury, such as a major bone fracture or head injury. Even if you’re restless, you shouldn’t go back to work too early.
You need to wait until your doctor clears you to return to work. Going back to work early can negatively affect your workers’ comp claims and benefits.
Work With an Attorney When Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims
Don’t attempt filing workers’ compensation claims yourself. Partner with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to increase your chance of success.
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