preparing yourself for an injury lawsuit

3 Mistakes To Avoid With Your Workers' Compensation Claim

After suffering a workplace injury, you have the right to file a workers' compensation claim. Unfortunately, even though your injury occurred in the workplace, there is no guarantee that your employer's insurance company will pay the claim. To protect your claim, here are some commonly made mistakes to avoid.

Waiting to File the Claim

Following an injury in the workplace, your attention is most likely on seeking medical treatment. Although recovering from your injury is important, filing your claim is also crucial.

The longer you wait to file your claim, the easier it will be for the insurance company to argue that your injury was not as serious as you claim. The insurance company could even argue that your injury was not work-related.

Relying on an Unapproved Doctor

Your employer's insurance company has the right to require you to seek treatment at an approved medical care provider. If you fail to do so, the insurance company could reject your workers compensation claim.

After receiving emergency care for your injury, contact the insurance company and ask for a list of approved medical care providers. Chances are, your regular doctor is on the list, but if not, select a provider that is approved by the insurance company.

If you want to use your own doctor, your workers' compensation attorney might be able to work out an arrangement with the insurance company. If the insurance company refuses, continue to see the approved medical care provider. Your attorney can help you handle any conflicts that result from the medical reports provided by the approved provider.

Not Fully Understanding Your Benefits

Your company may not ensure that you are fully aware of all the benefits that you are entitled to. Unfortunately, some people miss out on crucial benefits because they are not familiar with what they should be receiving.

For instance, if your position was filled while you were recovering or you are unable to return to the same line of work, your employer's insurance company is required to provide vocational rehabilitation to help with job training and finding a new position. However, many people are not aware of this.

Take some time to review all of the possible benefits you could receive with a workers' compensation attorney after filing your claim. Your attorney can ensure that your settlement includes the benefits you are entitled to. Talk to a workers compensation attorney for more information.


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