Being injured on the job can leave you struggling financially with medical bills and loss of wages. Worker’s compensation laws exist to protect you, the worker, from financial ruin due to a work related injury. When making a worker’s compensation claim, it is important to know your rights under the worker’s compensation laws to ensure that you are treated fairly and get the compensation you deserve. Following friendly tips how to handle an injury at work (Worker’s Compensation) will make sure that you are prepared when making your worker’s compensation claim.
Worker related injury lawyers should be contacted as soon as possible especially for severe cases requiring surgical repair from overuse injuries, sudden snaps or tears and so on, however, first thing is first. Report your accident or injury immediately to your supervisor or employer. You need this documented and on record as soon as possible. You should make a report even if you do not require medical attention at that time. There are instances where an injury or accident can have long term affects that may not be recognizable at the date of injury and failure to report it at the time of injury can keep you from making a claim. Not being able to make a legitimate claim when you need to can have a devastating result on your finances.
Also, it is advisable to be aware that there is a time limit that you can make your worker’s compensation claim, and it varies by state. Be familiar with what those time limits are so that you do not miss your chance to make a claim. Also, remember that some countries or states have a timeframe to report the accident or injury initially and a separate timeframe for the actual claim. This is in response to what was mentioned earlier that sometimes an injury will not have immediate affects but may in the future.
Do not stop seeking medical attention; if your injury is severe enough that you need to seek medical attention then do so. Do not let your financial situation keep you from getting medical attention because some injuries can often worsen if proper medical care is not taken. The obvious repercussions are you can become permanently injured and suffer even further losses. Ensure to let your doctor or medical professional know that you suffered this injury due to a work related accident.
Do not give up hope even if you have been denied a claim. The insurance companies that handle the claims are actually under the employ of your employer and will have only your employer and their best interest in mind. If you have been denied a claim you may want to seek the advice of an attorney who specializes in worker’s compensation cases. An attorney will work for you and arbitrate between you and the insurance company to get you the compensation you deserve.
Worker’s compensation claims can be intimidating and often leave you feeling despair especially after a denial of the claim. Worker’s compensation laws are there to protect you, but you have to know what your rights are under those laws to ensure you are treated fairly and get the compensation you deserve. If you are unsure of those rights, seek legal counsel.