Injuries and illnesses are both common occurrences at work. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics details that there are 2.8 cases of injuries and illnesses per 100 workers. Given this information, it’s easy to see why worker’s compensation claims hold an important place in the modern workplace. However, many of you will be disappointed to find out that insurance companies do their best to minimize these claims or straight up deny them if possible due to the processes and paperwork involved.
To stop this from ever happening to you, we’ve prepared a short guide on how to make sure your worker’s compensation claim is paid out:
Report the Injury Immediately
While the law states that you have 30 days to report work-related injuries and illnesses, putting off reporting the incident will actually hurt your chances. The solution to this is straightforward: if you are injured or get sick because of work, report it as soon as you are able to! This is also a good time to take note of any witnesses of the incident, as you may need to provide a witness when the case is being deliberated.
Fill Out the Accident Report Forms Accurately
In line with reporting the incident immediately, you’ll also want to make sure to fill out the report on the incident accurately. Now, if you feel that your injury or sickness will prevent you from doing this correctly, it will be best to fill out the report only when you’re feeling better.
Now, you’ll also want to be consistent when making your claim. This is why it will be best to relay the same information that will be in your report to everyone involved. Being inconsistent with your claims will weaken them and decrease your chances of getting paid what is owed to you.
Get Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible
Another step you have to do is get treatment for your injury or illness as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can weaken your claim as it can be argued that if you didn’t get treated for the injury or sickness immediately, then it must not have been a serious case. In relation to this, you’ll also want to authorize the insurer to get copies of your medical records regarding your work-related injury or sickness.
Consult with a Lawyer
Keep in mind that hiring and consulting with a lawyer can make this process infinitely easier. A lawyer can help you prepare your claim in a way that maximizes the chances of you receiving the compensation that you deserve. Now, when it comes to hiring lawyers, it would be best to hire an expert who is used to handling these types of cases. For instance, our lawyers at Pacific Workers are dedicated to helping hardworking people with their worker’s compensation claims.
Conclusion
If you are injured or get sick due to your job, then you are entitled to receive proper compensation benefits. Yet, you still must take the proper steps to ensure a smooth process. Hopefully, the tips that we’ve laid out here will prove helpful if you ever need to make a worker’s compensation claim!
If you’re looking for worker’s compensation attorneys in California, we at Pacific Workers have your back. Our team of experienced lawyers will do all they can to ensure that you maximize your financial compensation for any pain or suffering you have endured. Get in touch with us today at 800 606 6999 for a consultation!
