Workers’ compensation is provided as a wage replacement and medical benefits to employees who have been injured at work. While many claims are straightforward, some employers dispute the claim, or their insurance carrier creates problems which can leave you with no benefits. To beat the insurance provider at their own game, and get the settlement you deserve, here are five tactics that can help solidify your side.
Seek Medical Care Immediately
If you have been injured while at work, you must not delay in seeking medical attention. Some workers have delayed treatment which can hinder your claim. Any delays in getting medical assistance for a work-related injury will give the insurance provider more reasons to deny your claim. The insurance company may argue your injury did not take place in the workplace, or you couldn’t have been too badly injured if you waited to seek medical aid. Your medical records are key evidence that you can obtain afterwards for your claim. Before looking into workers comp attorneys, putting your health and wellbeing first is essential.
Notify Your Employer
There is no excuse not to tell your employer about your work injury. Should you wait, it may be more difficult for your employer or insurance provider to believe you. You should never feel afraid you will get into trouble or lose your role, so don’t hesitate in reporting your injuries. Also, it’s illegal for employers to fire an injured employee for doing so.
File Your Claim Quickly
The quicker you file your workers’ comp claim, the better. You must remember, notifying your employer of your injuries is not the same as filing a claim. You need to do both to receive benefits. While each state has its own deadlines for compensation claims, it’s always best to do it as soon as you can, otherwise, you could lose rights for compensation and benefits. As a worker, you’ll know how important time management is when dealing with client deadlines, so make sure you share the same sentiment with your worker’s comp claim.
Keep Track of Everything
For your worker’s compensation claim to be a success, the process starts with good recordkeeping. It’s your duty to keep copies of anything you deem relevant for the claim. These can include detailed notes of messages, phone calls, and attempts to contact the insurance provider. Your medical records, witness statements, and work injury report must also be in order, especially if you plan on seeking legal aid.
Consider Hiring a Workers’ Comp Lawyer
You may need to hire a workers’ comp lawyer if your employer or the insurance provider isn’t playing ball. Having a specialist attorney working alongside you should give you hope and confidence that you’ll get the outcome you envisage. Make sure your lawyer knows how to keep their cool under pressure and knows the ins and outs of workers’ compensation claims.
Being injured and out of work through no fault of your own can be debilitating. To ensure you get the benefits you’re entitled to, the tips above should help in verifying your injuries and ensure you are taken care of medically and financially.
