Some unavoidable incidents at work lead to accidents. Fortunately, in most cases, workers are given an ample amount of compensation to help them recover physically and financially for the injuries that they have sustained. In case you are thinking of filing a worker’s compensation claim, below are some useful tips that you can keep in mind.
Immediately Report the Incident
One of the primary things that you need to do when you get injured in your workplace is to immediately report the incident. Make sure that you indicate the injuries you have sustained because of the accident that happened while you were at work. As much as possible, notify your direct superior who will most likely file a report about the incident. They can also escalate the matter to the management to improve the safety regulations of your company.
As soon as there is already a written report about the accident that includes your injuries, you should already begin filing a worker’s compensation claim. The seasoned legal practitioners behind Davis & Sanchez suggest that you research the regulations in your state because there is a certain time frame that you are allowed to file for a claim, which can vary from one state to another. If you miss the deadline, then you may lose your right to collect the benefits that you rightfully deserve.
Get Prompt Medical Treatment
Another thing that you need to do when you sustain injuries due to an accident in your workplace is to get prompt medical treatment. In this way, you will foster your overall health and well-being because your injuries are addressed promptly. Aside from rapidly recovering, you will also garner medical records that you can use as vital pieces of evidence later on to support your claim. When you delay seeking medical treatment, insurance providers may argue that your injuries are only minor or not that serious.
Collate And Organize Your Records
Make sure that you collate and organize all the paperwork related to your case. These include the report generated about the accident in your workplace, as well as your medical records when you received treatment. You should also organize all of your receipts, particularly those that are related to the expenses that you have incurred to get your injuries treated or help you get back on track. Even letters from your company or from the insurance provided need to be organized properly.
Understand Your Benefits
When you are filing for a worker’s compensation claim, you need to understand your benefits. In this way, you will have a good idea of what you are eligible for, as well as the things that should no longer be part of your claim. When you understand your benefits, you will also know whether you are getting the right compensation you deserve or otherwise. You will also have a good insight as to the average time frame of a claims process.
Prepare For Independent Medical Exams
Aside from a regular doctor’s appointment, you may also be subjected to an independent medical exam (IME). Unlike a check-up with your doctor, an IME is not intended to help treat your injuries. Rather, it is a cross-examination performed by an insurance provider to prove the severity of your injuries. More often than not, the insurance provider will hire a doctor who will perform the medical exam. This medical practitioner will also review your medical records and from there, they will generate a report that will be presented to the insurance company. Depending on the results of the exam, the latter can use it to refute or negotiate your claim.
Be Present In All Legal Proceedings Or Appointments
Finally, make sure that you are present in all legal proceedings or appointments related to your claim, but that is if you don’t have a worker’s compensation lawyer to represent you. If you or your representative fail to appear on a set appointment, there is a great chance for you to lose your benefit or eligibility to claim.
When it comes to filing a worker’s compensation claim, make sure that you report the incident that details the injuries you have sustained immediately. You should also promptly get medical treatment, ensuring that all your medical records are organized. Exert the effort to understand your benefits as well and be prepared for any independent medical exams. You should also be present in all legal proceedings or appointments necessary because all these are geared towards ensuring that you get the proper compensation that you deserve for the injuries you have sustained in your workplace.
