Have you got injured at work? The pain could be excruciating at this juncture but also the time to take some action about it. It would be best if you had immediate medical assistance but also lay the foundation of medical expense reimbursements as soon as possible, with proof.
Here are 6 things you must know when you get injured at work:
When to report your damage immediately to your Employer?
Immediately after the injury at your workplace, you need to report your injury to your employer without wasting any more time. Even when you are in pain, have the common sense to furnish a valid proof in writing or have a video or verbal call to ensure that the report of injury is intimated to your employer.
The earliest notifications will help you in claiming your worker compensation benefits. Complete this process immediately so that you don’t lose your legal rights or benefits from your employer. He will provide you with their insurer’s details and notify the insurer about the incident within 48 hours.
How to seek Medical Care immediately?
Taking immediate medical care after an injury at work is essential and that also from a qualified doctor. Usually, in some workplaces, most of the injured workers are referred to a doctor who is familiar to the employer. And he will supervise your case for a maximum of 30 days, and then you will be able to choose your doctor. While seeking medical treatment, you must keep records of medical bills and case history appropriately documented. They help a lot while seeking any compensation.
Always stay true to your doctor and never lie about your injury or fake your injury to increase your compensation. Else, you would be in more trouble and, in some instances, even get your claim rejected.
How to file a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
The most vital thing to follow after a workplace injury is to file for a worker’s compensation claim. It is like requesting a benefit from your employer. Fill the form and offer the claim form immediately to your employer to provide benefits. Attach all the supporting documents and evidence like medical bills, doctor’s diagnosis, etc. sign the shapes with a filing date and keep a copy of it for future use. If you are mailing it, use a certified mail return receipt to avoid delays in your compensation. If your employer cooperates, then he will fill all the employer side column and send to his worker compensation insurance company.
Notwithstanding, which type of insurer is involved in your case, he will work and manage your claim to ensure you receive the entitlements. Within fifteen days or so, you will receive a letter from the insurance company referring to your claim. The insurer will also provide information about the payments you are entitled to the worker’s compensation claim and may provide time off.
When to Hire a Lawyer?
The next step you’ve to follow is hiring a lawyer if you feel your case is complicated or if your employer gives excuses for your compensation. If you think that you are not able to tackle your situation in front of your employer and insurance company, then you can freely consult for a LawAdvice. In some instances, if your claim has been referred to a judge, then you need to compulsory hire an attorney to represent your case.
What steps can you take if you are not satisfied with your Compensation?
After your claims process is complete, if you feel dissatisfied with your received compensation, you can apply for further compensation. This process helps officials to reconsider the decision attached to all the evidence. In case your employer disapproves of your claim, you can seek a hearing at the worker’s compensation board.
What to do if your employer does not have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
As a genuine employer, one needs to compulsory have a worker’s compensation insurance. But in some instances, if your employer does not have a worker’s compensation insurance facility, then it is better you immediately call your lawyer. Then he will guide you on other prospects for compensation. Some states even have provisions for funding out and pay for your workers’ compensation benefits. Other than this, you are also liable to sue your employer against negligence for not carrying workers’ compensation insurance.
