Filing for and obtaining worker’s compensation coverage for injuries sustained at work can be frustrating. The process has been further complicated by the constant legislative attempts to change the system in recent years. Unfortunately, most injured workers aren’t familiar with the legal system, especially claiming compensation for personal injuries. You can easily make mistakes that jeopardize your right to fair compensation. You should avoid the following three common mistakes when filing for a compensation claim.
Ignoring the Importance of Hiring an Experienced Attorney
You should hire a seasoned worker’s compensation injury attorney for various reasons. Unless you suffered minor injuries, didn’t miss time off work, or your employer admits liability, you should consider hiring a lawyer. Unfortunately, most employees sustain serious workplace injuries that can take them off work for weeks, months, or years. If you suffered workplace injuries in Houston, you should hire Jimmy Doan, a Houston injury attorney, for the following reasons:
- Knowledge of the law: Personal injury attorneys deeply understand employment laws. They will help you fill out the compensation claim form and file the case in court.
- Understand how much your case is worth: Attorneys have experience settling similar cases. As such, they can accurately estimate how much you are entitled to.
- Your injuries are severe: You should approach compensation cautiously if your injuries are severe or you suffered permanent disability. The value of your claims should include future medical bills and lost wages.
- If you have pre-existing medical conditions: Your employer or their insurer may reject your claims because of pre-existing medical conditions. This isn’t true, and you should hire an attorney to argue your case.
- Potential third-party claims: You should also hire a lawyer to file a claim against your employer and a third party. For instance, if you sustained injuries from a car accident at work. The negligent driver should also be held responsible, which might complicate the case.
Waiting to report the injury
Most state laws require injured workers to file their claims for worker’s compensation within a year or two years for occupational diseases. However, the more you delay, the more it becomes difficult to prove injury and obtain benefits. You should report sustained injuries to your employer soon.
Ideally, your employer will ask you to complete an incident report and provide information about the workplace incident. Even if your employer doesn’t require this, you should have the report in writing. Documenting your injuries creates a clear timeline and notice of the injuries.
Foregoing medical care
Not seeking immediate medical attention and ignoring your doctor’s treatment plan can also void your compensation claim. Not seeking care makes it difficult to prove your injuries. Not complying with the doctor’s treatment plan also raises concerns.
Endnote
Worker’s compensation benefits help injured employees recover financially after workplace accidents. The outcome of this claim affects your financial stability, especially if you suffered debilitating injuries. You should give your best possible chance to receive fair compensation.
