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Getting injured in your place of work can leave you with huge medical bills and days, weeks, or even months of missed work time. It can also leave you stressed over how to cater to your living costs. Fortunately, you are eligible for benefits through your employer’s compensation policy and have a legal right to settlement for your medical expenses and lost wages.
Workers’ compensation is designed to help you make ends meet while you recover from sustained injuries. However, you might not get the money you deserve if you aren’t careful during the claim process. Here are some tips to help you build a strong claim and get fair compensation.
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Tips to help you build a strong claim and get fair compensation
Seek immediate medical attention
Get immediate medical attention if you are injured on the job or while conducting business for your employer. Immediate medical care dramatically boosts your chances of recovery. It can also serve as essential medical evidence in your claim by documenting your accident and describing your physical restrictions and injuries.
Don’t wait to see whether you will feel better in a few days, as you might give the company a reason to deny your claim. The insurance company might argue that you were not as seriously injured as you claim or that the accident never happened.
Report your injury immediately
You should report your injury as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be for your employer or the insurance company to believe you have a legitimate workers’ compensation claim. In some states, you will need to file a workers’ compensation claim within a certain period to start your claim officially. Most employers will have a standard Report of Injury form for you to fill out. However, if you can’t do that right away, call or email to have it on record that you reported your injury.
Understand your compensation benefits
It’s good to understand the benefits you might be eligible for, as this will allow you to justify your demands. While every state has its own rules for amounts and eligibility criteria, some things are typically the same. Some of the most common benefits available are:
- Temporary disability benefits
- Medical treatment
- Permanent disability benefits
- Mileage
- Vocational rehabilitation
You might also be entitled to additional benefits if your accident was a result of a faulty machine. You can reach out to your workers compensation lawyer for help if you have any questions regarding all the available benefits.
Hire a workers’ compensation lawyer
You might not need a lawyer if your claim is simple or the insurance company voluntarily pays for your claim. However, it’s best to hire an experienced lawyer if your claim is complicated or your benefits have been lowered or denied. You should also consider getting a lawyer if the insurance company ignores your claim or requests for information. An experienced lawyer will correctly evaluate your claim, negotiate with the insurance agency, and, if required, represent you in an appeal.
Endnote
Sustaining an injury at your workplace can lead to lots of pain, stress, and financial burdens. While getting compensation for your damage can help reduce financial loss due to lost earnings, the insurance company may try to find ways to minimize the amount they pay you. Fortunately, following these essential tips can help you get the most out of your workers’ compensation claim.