What To Do If You Mess Up Your Workers' Compensation Claim
Posted on: 26 September 2022
Worker's compensation can be a tricky thing. The rules vary by state and are often too complex to understand. Hurt workers may worry that they have made a mistake and that it's too late to get benefits after a work injury. Read on to find out why that might not be accurate.
You Delayed Filing a Claim
The sooner you file a claim with your employer's workers' compensation carrier, the better. However, many states have generous deadlines for filing. Some workers may be in poor health because of a work accident and are unable to take action right away. Don't let a delay stop you from applying for benefits, however.
In some cases, waiting to file might make it seem like the injury was not serious (or real). Speak to a workers' compensation lawyer for help if your claim is denied for any reason. Some injuries don't happen suddenly. For instance, stress and strain injuries happen slowly, like carpal tunnel syndrome. Pinpointing the exact day the problem began can be challenging. If you are afflicted with a slow-to-show injury, seek medical help as soon as you can. Then, inform your supervisor of the injury so that a claim can be filed.
You Went to the Wrong Doctor for Treatment
After an injury, the important thing is to get treatment right away. You cannot always go to a workers' compensation doctor when it's an emergency. Once you get initial treatment and file a claim, you will be provided with instructions on how to proceed. In some places, you can choose your own doctors. However, emergency treatment is covered regardless. Be sure and let the medical practitioners know that your injury is work-related.
Once you begin treatment with an approved workers' compensation doctor, they oversee everything that happens with your injury. When it's time to return to work, the doctor who operated on you will be the one who will order you to do so. However, if you disagree with the order, speak to a workers' compensation lawyer about your right to a second opinion.
You Accepted a Too-Small Settlement
You should get help when you are offered a settlement. A settlement usually means that you have permanent injuries. Settlements should be enough to fill in for the job that you can no longer perform. If you agreed to a settlement and now regret it, seek help fast. Depending on the laws in your state, your case can be reopened. However, that usually happens only when you were lied to or tricked into signing something.
Find out more by speaking to a workers' compensation lawyer near you.
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