Injuries at the workplace can happen to anyone if there are no precautions at the workplace. When there are employees who face such injuries, then they can file worker’s compensation to recover the cost of their injuries. As the worker has already faced the injury, then if they are filing a compensation claim, it will be difficult to file the claim. There is also a possibility of some mistakes that the workers can make while filing the claims.
If you are also looking for guidance to help you avoid mistakes while filing the worker’s compensation, then you are at the right place. In this article, we will discuss common mistakes to avoid when filing a worker’s compensation. You can also consult an expert lawyer, such as Delventhal Law, where you can get expert guidance for worker’s compensation.
What are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Worker’s Compensation Claim?
It is essential to know which mistakes you must avoid when filing the worker’s compensation. So, let’s discuss some of the common mistakes that you can prevent while filing a worker’s compensation claim.
Not Documenting the Injury Immediately
Injuries at the workplace can be very stressful and also severe if there is no precaution. So, when you face such conditions, you need to document the injuries as soon as possible. It will be best for you to document all the injury-related incidents word by word because you tend to forget after some time. Therefore, it will be easy for you to file the case as soon as it has occurred.
Not Filing the Case Immediately After the Injury
It is equally essential for you to understand that as soon as you suffer injuries, you have to file the case immediately. If you do not file the case, then it would be your grave mistake to recover the injury claims. Additionally, you should also notify your employer about your injury as soon as possible. In some states, there is also a time limit for filing the case, and therefore, you need to file the case as quickly as possible.
Not Seeking Medical Care
Medical care is essential immediately after the injury. You have to inform the doctor about the injuries that you have sustained at your workplace. You must get copies of the medical reports and proper treatment plans. It will help you gather evidence about your injuries, especially when filing compensation claims.
Not Following Medical Recommendations
If you are unable to follow medical recommendations or follow-up, then your injury will worsen. It will also take more time to recover from the injuries, which will not be suitable for your health. Therefore, it would be better to have a proper follow-up plan and consult the doctor in a timely manner.
Don’t Exaggerate About Your Injuries
There is a possibility that the employees might occasionally try to exaggerate the symptoms and lie about their injuries to get more claims. This can worsen the situation and affect your claims. Therefore, it would be better to be honest about your injuries and state the actual incident and injuries. It would help if you did not lie about it, as it can lead to rejection of your claims.
Don’t Give Recorded Statements to the Insurance Company
It would help if you were cautious while giving statements to the insurance company. If you want to have claims with little problems, then you must take the guidance of an expert lawyer. If you provide statements without guidance, then your words can be twisted without your consent. Insurance companies try to reduce compensation claims, but it could affect your claims. Therefore, it is better to make a statement in the presence of your lawyer.