After suffering an on-the-job injury that stops you from working, workers’ compensation is there to help you get by. Since you will not have a regular source of income while you heal, these funds will be necessary to bridge the gap until your return.
However, there are steps every applicant must take for their workers’ compensation application to go through.
Report the injury immediately
Before anything else, inform a supervisor or employer about the injury. Most workplaces have procedures for reporting such episodes. When filling out the incident report, be specific and include details that paint a complete picture.
Seek medical attention
Next, get medical care. A healthcare professional will assess the injury, provide treatment and create documentation confirming your condition. Medical records are a must in workers’ compensation claims. Follow your doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a paper trail confirming the injury and its impact.
Complete the paperwork
Most employers and their insurance providers directly supply workers’ compensation claim forms. Fill out yours accurately and thoroughly. Include all information concerning the situation and attach any required documents, such as physician assessments and witness statements.
Submit the paperwork
The finished form must be received as soon as possible, typically by the employer or their insurance carrier. Since missing the target date can trigger a denial, beware of submission deadlines.
Make inquiries
After submitting the claim, periodically follow up regarding its status. Keep track of all correspondence and promptly respond to requests for additional insight. Staying proactive can prevent errors that may cause your application to stall.
When you make a workers’ compensation claim, the hope is that everything goes well. Having an attorney by your side increases the odds of a successful filing.