If you have sustained job-related injuries, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which cover your medical expenses and lost income. The benefits can help you meet your financial obligations while you recover from your injuries. But a claim approval does not guarantee full benefits. A skilled worker’s comp lawyer knows the steps to take to ensure you obtain the maximum benefits you are entitled to. Also, you can learn more about how the claim process works with your attorney’s guidance. To maximize your benefits, here are steps you must take:
Report the Injury to Your Employer as Soon as Possible
Job-related injuries and diseases must be reported to employers not later than thirty days following the workplace incident that caused them. Not reporting your injury to your boss could ruin your claim and lead to the loss of the benefits you need.
A lot of employees assume they meet such requirements since their employer knows about their injury. Perhaps a supervisor was there when the incident happened or maybe you informed your manager about your injury verbally. However, this does not create a record of your report. It’s important to report a work injury in writing.
Seek Medical Treatment Right Away
If you want to get the full benefits you deserve, submit a strong workers’ comp claim. Employers and insurers will examine and assess the information given to them to determine the benefits to give. Your medical documentation is your claim’s foundation.
Insurance companies will consider whether you sought medical attention. Waiting to seek treatment could work against you and your claim. Insurers may argue that your injury was not as serious as you claim because you failed to seek immediate treatment.
At the outset, it may not be clear how severe your work injury is or whether you cannot go to work because of it. Generally, it is best to seek immediate medical attention once you inform your boss that you can’t work because of your condition.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
One way to strengthen your claim is to follow the recommendations of your doctors. This could mean not lifting anything beyond your limitations. Also, you should not engage in activities that your doctor prohibits. If you are ordered to stay in bed, you must do so. Also, make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments. When it comes to rehabilitative care like physical therapy, be diligent.
