Tips for Filing a Worker's Compensation Claim

Workplace injuries can devastate a person's life. Whether it results in a permanent disability or crushing medical expenses, these are serious situations. While your employer is legally required to carry worker's compensation insurance, it is a reality that many workers are not very informed about their rights under this type of policy. As a result, they may need guidance to give their case the best chance possible of ending favorably. By following these two tips, you can help ensure that you are making sound decisions throughout this process. 

Report the Injury as Soon as Possible

Many workers make the mistake of assuming that their minor workplace injury is not worth reporting. However, this can prove to be a critical error. When you are injured on the job, it is important for the employer to record the incident and the injuries you have claimed. In the event that you file a worker's compensation claim, this information will be critical in determining whether or not the injuries actually stemmed from a workplace injury. 

If you make the mistake of  failing to report the incident for several days or longer, you may weaken your ability to prove that your injuries resulted from your job. While your attorney may still be able to prove your case, it will greatly increase the cost and difficulty of arguing the case. 

Understand You Have a Right to Appeal a Denied Claim

It is an unfortunate fact that many individuals with legitimate worker's compensation claims will find themselves denied by the insurance company. These denials can be for any number of reasons, but it is important for you to understand that you have the right to appeal these decisions. 

For those that did not hire an attorney when they originally started this process, it is critical for you to seek experienced legal counsel during the appeal. You may only have one more chance to win compensation for your injury, and an attorney may give you the best chance of succeeding. These individuals understand the tactics that the insurance company may use to avoid paying you, and this knowledge will allow them to counter these points. Considering that you will only pay your worker's compensation attorney if they are successful in your case, this is a type of representation that you may not be able to afford going without. 

When you are needing to file a worker's compensation claim, it is important for you to understand the importance of reporting your injury as soon as possible and knowing that you have a right to appeal a denied claim. This knowledge will help you to ensure your rights are protected when you are unfortunate enough to be injured at work. Find an attorney at a firm near you, such as McMullen & Ochs PLLC, and get started today.