Accidents are a common occurrence in most workplaces. However, the risks may vary depending on the workplace conditions and type of work. For instance, a study by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration suggests that the construction industry accounts for one in every five workplace-related death in the US. This was due to prevalent risks such as falls, slips, and getting struck by objects. Even in seemingly safe office settings, accidents do happen. Injury claims are one way to cushion yourself financially from an accident. Here are the four ways to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
1. Seek immediate medical attention
Taking longer to seek medical attention following a workplace accident can affect the legitimacy of your claim. Therefore, seeking immediate medical care when you are hurt at work is in your best interest. It is tempting to want to wait and see if the injury heals by itself. Unfortunately, the insurance company has reasons to refuse your claim when you wait a little longer. They may suggest that the said injury didn’t occur in the workplace or isn’t so severe since you were reluctant to seek medical care.
2. Notify your employer about the injury
There is no valid reason to delay informing your employer that you were hurt on the job. The longer you wait to inform them, the more difficult it will be for them or the workers’ compensation insurance company to believe you have a valid workers’ compensation claim. You should complete and send your employer a standard Report of Injury form. Even if you’re worried about getting in trouble or fired, you must disclose the injury to your employer. It is illegal for them to harass or dismiss you for filing a workers’ compensation claim or reporting a workplace accident.
3. Review your choice of doctor
Many firms have a designated doctor who treats wounded personnel. If you are dissatisfied with this doctor, you have the right to request a change. In many states, employees must first see a doctor designated by the insurance provider. There is a possible conflict of interest when seeing the insurer’s doctor since they are mainly paid by the insurer and may not always act in your best interests. However, the treating doctor is crucial for your recovery and making the best of your compensation claim. You should change doctors if you are convinced you are not getting the best care.
4. Keep detailed records
Keeping copies of the documents and papers related to your injury and compensation claim is always good. These documents may include work limitations, completed forms like an accident report, employer letters, or those from the insurance company. Your physician may also produce a detailed medical record to document the treatment. This data helps get your workers’ compensation claim paid. When in doubt, you can seek the help of an accident lawyer to maximize your compensation. If you are in the area, you can talk to one of the best personal injury lawyers Brownsville offers.
It can be difficult to recover better if you don’t get the maximum compensation for a workplace injury. Unfortunately, many workers commit simple yet costly mistakes which deny them full compensation. Consider the tips above to make the most out of your claim.
