If you suffer an injury while at work, or if you work a job that has a high possibility of an injury occurring, it is a good idea to understand how workers’ compensation cases work.
If you ever suffer an injury while at work, of if you suffer from a work-related illness, then the following things may be beneficial in protecting your ability to claim workers’ compensation benefits.
The fact is, workers’ compensation can be invaluable after an on-the-job injury and help you recover lost wages that you may experience because you miss work while you recover, and it may also help to provide reimbursement for medical care that may be needed. Some tips to help ensure you don’t jeopardize your workers’ compensation benefits can be found here.
Go to All Doctor’s Appointments to Protect Workers’ Compensation Benefits
When you are receiving treatment for your work-related injuries or conditions, you need to make sure you go to all scheduled doctor appointments. It is a good idea to keep a journal to know when you have an appointment and with whom. It will also provide proof that you are seeking the treatment necessary to recover and get back to work. In some cases, it will be necessary to provide these appointments and other information to your representative to ensure you can keep receiving benefits.
Protect Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits by Communicating with Your Employer and their Insurer
There are guidelines established that let you know what to do if you become ill or suffer an injury while on the job. The initial step to getting these benefits is to report the illness or injury to your employer. You need to continue communicating with your boss and their insurance company during the claims process to ensure your claim has been filed and that you don’t miss your opportunity to claim benefits.
Protect Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits by Keeping Accurate Records
As mentioned before, it is a good idea to keep a journal that includes your appointments and doctor’s information. It is also a good idea to keep all correspondence you receive regarding your injury or illness. This includes correspondence from your doctor, employer or the insurance company. This paperwork may prove essential down the road.
Protect Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits by Hiring an Attorney
Perhaps the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your workers’ compensation benefits is to hire an experienced attorney. They will be able to review the facts of your case and ensure that you are getting what you deserve related to your on-the-job accident or illness. Without an attorney, you may not be aware of the issues that may arise, such as timelines you have to submit paperwork, benefits you are due and more. Keep in mind, the right attorney matters, so take the time to find one who has handled cases similar to yours in the past.
If you need help with your workers’ compensation case, then it is best to hire an attorney right away. They can ensure you don’t jeopardize your benefits in any way. More information about workers’ compensation cases can be found by contacting the attorneys at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. by calling (561) 687-5660.
Additional reading
If You Fall From an Unknown Cause at Work, Are You Entitled to Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Can You Get Workers’ Comp Insurance if You’re Self-Employed?