Suffering an injury on the job can be a stressful and challenging experience for workers. Following the proper steps when filing a workers’ compensation claim is essential to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. However, many workers make mistakes that can potentially harm their case.
Here are some of the most common mistakes injured workers make during the workers’ compensation process.
Failing to report the injury immediately
One of the biggest mistakes injured workers make is not reporting their injury to their employer or supervisor immediately. This can harm your case, as it is crucial to report the injury as soon as possible to ensure that you have a valid claim. Reporting your injury helps establish the timeline of your injury for your employer and their workers’ compensation insurance. Even if the injury seems minor, it is essential to report it to your employer so that they can document it in case you need to file a claim later.
Not seeking medical treatment right away
Many injured workers delay seeking medical treatment, believing their injuries are not severe. However, this can harm your case if your injuries worsen over time. It is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately, even if your injuries appear minor. Medical records are necessary evidence for your claim; seeking treatment will help document your injuries.
Failing to follow medical advice
Another common mistake injured workers make is not following the medical advice given by their doctor. If you do not follow your doctor’s orders, it may appear that you are not taking your recovery seriously, which could harm your case. It is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and attend all medical appointments to show that you are doing everything in your power to recover from your injury.
Returning to work too soon
Many workers feel pressured to return to work before they have recovered fully from their injury, often because they need the money or are worried about losing their job. However, returning to work too soon can be a significant mistake as it can harm your health and your case. It is crucial to follow your doctor’s orders and wait until you are fully healed before returning to work.
Not consulting an attorney
Finally, one of the most significant mistakes injured workers make is not consulting with an attorney. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help guide you through the claims process, answer your questions and represent your interests.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be challenging, and many injured workers make mistakes that can potentially harm their case. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can maximize your chances of a successful claim and receive the benefits you deserve.