9 Workers’ Comp No-Nos: Don’t Make These Common Mistakes
What Not To Do While on Workers Comp
If you’ve been injured while at work, there are certain things you need to do to ensure that your workers compensation claim is successful. However, there are also some things you should avoid doing. Knowing what not to do when on workers comp can save you from making mistakes that could jeopardize your claim and prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Mistake #1: Failing to report the injury
It is essential that you report your injury as soon as possible to your employer. If you wait too long, your employer may claim that you were not injured on the job or that the injury is not severe enough to warrant workers comp.
Mistake #2: Not seeking medical attention
If you are injured on the job, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This not only ensures that you receive the proper treatment for your injury, but it also creates a record of your injury and the treatment you received.
Mistake #3: Not following your doctor's orders
Your doctor will give you specific instructions for your recovery, including any necessary restrictions or limitations on your activities. It is important that you follow these instructions, as failure to do so could jeopardize your claim.
Mistake #3: Returning to work too soon
It is important to give your body time to heal, and returning to work before you are fully recovered could exacerbate your injury and make it more difficult to recover.
Mistake #4: Not keeping in touch with your employer
While you are on workers comp, it is important to keep in touch with your employer to keep them informed of your progress and any changes to your medical status.
Mistake #5: Failing to cooperate with the claims adjuster
The claims adjuster is responsible for evaluating your claim and determining the benefits you are entitled to receive. It is important to cooperate with the claims adjuster and provide any information or documentation they request in a timely manner.
What does a Claims Adjuster do?
A claims adjuster is a professional who is responsible for evaluating workers' compensation claims and determining the benefits to which an injured worker is entitled. The claims adjuster will review the details of the injury, including the circumstances surrounding the injury and the medical treatment received, in order to make a determination about the claim.
The claims adjuster will also investigate the claim to ensure that it is legitimate and that the injury was actually sustained on the job. This may involve speaking with the injured worker, the employer, and medical providers, and reviewing medical records and other documentation.
Once the claims adjuster has gathered all of the necessary information, they will make a determination about the claim and the benefits to which the injured worker is entitled. This may include medical benefits, wage replacement, and other forms of financial assistance. The claims adjuster will also be responsible for communicating the decision to the injured worker and their employer.
It is important to cooperate with the claims adjuster and provide any information or documentation they request in a timely manner. If you have any questions or concerns about the claims process, it is important to raise them with the claims adjuster or your employer.
Mistake #6: Falsifying information
It is important to be honest and forthcoming with your employer, the claims adjuster, and your doctor. Providing false information or withholding important information could jeopardize your claim.
Mistake #7: Not appealing a denied claim
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. It is important to understand the appeals process and to seek legal assistance if necessary.
Mistake #8: Not keeping track of your expenses
While you are on workers comp, you may incur additional expenses for things like transportation to and from medical appointments, medication, and other out-of-pocket costs. It is important to keep track of these expenses, as you may be entitled to reimbursement.
Mistake #9: Not seeking legal assistance
If you are having difficulty with your workers' comp claim, or if you feel that your rights have been violated, it may be helpful to seek the assistance of an experienced workers' comp attorney.
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you can avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your workers comp claim. Remember, it is important to report your injury promptly, seek medical attention, follow your doctor's orders, and cooperate with the claims adjuster in order to ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
Knowledge is power when it comes to managing a workers compensation claim properly and successfully getting compensated for an injury sustained on the job site. By understanding what not do while on workers comp – including not telling employers about an injury right away, not following doctor's orders closely enough, and failing to document everything related to the claim – employees can take control of their situation and ensure they receive what they deserve from their employer or insurance company in a timely manner.
Seek Legal Help Today
If you are having difficulty with your workers' compensation claim, or if you feel that your rights have been violated, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced workers comp attorney. At Shultz Legal, we understand the complexities of the workers comp system, and we are here to help.
Our team of dedicated attorneys has a proven track record of success in helping workers like you get the benefits they deserve. We will work closely with you to understand your situation and develop a strategy to get you the best possible outcome.
Don't let the insurance company or your employer take advantage of you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate the workers' comp process. We are here to fight for you and get you the benefits you deserve.
