Get The Workers' Compensation Benefits You Need
Hurt workers may be entitled to certain workers' compensation benefits, but things don't always go well. It's easy for hurt workers to make a wrong move and send things off the track after a work injury. Don't give up, though, on being paid what you deserve. Knowing what to do when you encounter a problem and how to keep within the rules is important so read on to find what you need to know.
File Quickly and Correctly
You must let your supervisor at work know about your injury as soon as possible. You can do so by phone if necessary. In most states, the supervisor is responsible for filing the claim form with your employer's workers' comp insurance carrier. Be sure to look over the form and only sign when you are sure that it is complete and accurate.
See the Doctor Right Away
Delaying treatment could send a message that your injury is not bad enough to gain benefits. Let the front desk and the practitioner know that your injury is connected to your job. Things vary from state to state with workers' compensation coverage. In some states, you will follow up with a workers' comp doctor. In some, you can use anyone from an approved list or even your own doctor. Either way, nothing happens without the doctor's go-ahead. From them will come all orders to recuperate at home, when to return to work and more.
Be Aware of Being Watched
Fraud is prevalent enough with workers' comp claims that the need exists for investigators to watch some recipients. Most workers' comp applicants are far too injured to worry about appearances, but you should still be aware of yourself when out in public. Don't be seen walking without your walker, for example, if you have been ordered to use one. You could lose your benefits if you are seen performing physical acts you should not be able to do.
Act Quickly When Issues Arise
Some workers get turned down for benefits right away, but some never have an issue with their claims. Others get initial benefits but then have their coverage cut off for all the wrong reasons. Whatever happens, don't just accept it. Every state has procedures for appealing decisions. However, you might only have a few weeks to respond to the ruling. To make sure you are provided with the opportunity to make things right, contact a job site accident lawyer at the first sign of a problem with your claim. They know how things are supposed to go and will be familiar with the workers' comp carrier and their practices.