Workers’ compensation pays individuals who are injured or become ill on the job. The worker can use these funds to replace lost wages, pay medical bills, or cover other expenses. This safety net has been put into place to protect workers. However, a person needs to know how to navigate the process.
Why Workers’ Comp Laws Are Necessary
Workers’ comp laws protect employers and employees. They ensure workers receive funds when they are unable to perform their duties due to a work-related injury or illness. They won’t need to sue to receive this compensation. Employers benefit because they won’t be forced to defend the company against a costly lawsuit. When a worker receives compensation through their program, they are not allowed to sue the employer for additional funds.
Claiming Workers’ Comp
A worker can only file a claim if they immediately report the injury or illness to the employer. Upon receiving this report, the employer must alert the workers’ compensation agency in its state and the insurance provider. Every state determines its laws regarding how long an employee has to report the illness or injury, and a claim may be denied if you don’t meet all deadlines. You may hire a workers comp lawyer in your area to help guide you through the process.
Maximizing the Claim
Workers can take many steps to maximize their claims. They need to understand the laws in their particular area, as they may differ significantly. Again, an attorney can be of great help with this process.
Keep detailed documents. Start doing so immediately after the injury or you become ill. These documents make your claim stronger and may entitle you to higher compensation.
Seek medical attention as soon as the illness or injury occurs. Putting off a visit to the doctor could make it difficult to receive workers’ compensation. The medical records are needed to prove the claim is valid. In addition, seeking immediate treatment may help lessen the severity of the illness or injury.
Talk With an Attorney
Although you may ultimately decide not to hire an attorney, it never hurts to speak to one when filing a workers’ compensation claim. These claims tend to be complex, and a single mistake can derail the process. The attorney not only handles the paperwork but makes certain no deadlines are missed. They serve as your advocate and conduct negotiations on your behalf. While they do charge for these services, many workers find they receive a higher settlement, one that helps cover the fees charged by the lawyer.
Don’t Settle Too Soon
It’s scary when you are unable to work due to an injury or illness. To make up for lost wages, you may be tempted to take the first settlement offered by the insurance company. Don’t do it. Most insurers offer a low amount initially because they expect the other party to open negotiations. If this party accepts the offer, the insurance company pays out a lesser amount than what the person is probably entitled to. Furthermore, by accepting the settlement, the worker agrees to not pursue additional compensation even if their medical care expenses or lost wages exceed the amount provided. Talk with an attorney to ensure any proposed settlement is fair.
Protect yourself by filing a workers’ comp claim anytime you are injured or become ill on the job. It’s your future, so it falls on you to take action. Don’t expect the employer to do so on your behalf. By taking this step and consulting with an attorney, you can ensure fair compensation is provided for this injury or illness, which is what you deserve in this type of situation.
Liam Stephens is a dynamic and skilled blogger, recognized for his ability to identify trends and create compelling content. As the founder of Remi-Portrait.com, Liam has become a reliable source of information across various fields such as food, technology, health, travel, business, lifestyle, and current events. He specializes in delivering up-to-date technology news and insights, catering to the diverse community that surrounds Remi-Portrait.com. His proficiency and engaging writing style have earned him a dedicated audience, solidifying his reputation in the digital sphere.
