Workplace injuries are distressing, and filing a workers’ compensation claim adds to the distress being a tedious task. Hence, making a few mistakes is common when filing workers’ compensation. However, be careful of these pitfalls as they can cause delays or denial in your benefits and claim unless you take assistance from a competent Richmond workers’ comp lawyer. Thus, let us uncover these omissions one after the other in this article so you can avoid them.
Top Mistakes to be Careful of When Filing Workers’ Compensation Claim
Avoid making the following mistakes when claiming workers’ compensation.
- Not reporting the injury right away
Failing to immediately report the injury is among the top mistakes workers make. Reporting delays can give rise to suspicions and make the process complicated. Hence, always report the injury as soon as possible, within 30 days of the injury if you are in Virginia.
- No prompt medical treatment
Immediate medical treatment ensures you get the required care and provides the evidence to support your claim. Hence, you should seek medical assistance promptly and be honest in describing your condition to the medical practitioner.
- Failing to follow the doctor’s advice
Failure to follow the prescribed treatment or not following the medical advice can go against your claim. Hence, it is in your best interest to strictly adhere to the doctor’s recommendations, follow up regularly, and maintain a detailed record of the treatment.
- Not following the deadlines
The workers’ compensation claim deadlines are stringent. And, your claim may get rejected if you miss the time frame stipulated by law to submit the paperwork.
- No detailed documentation
Workers’ compensation claims must have solid paperwork and comprehensive records in your support. Hence, ensure you have every detail of your workplace injury recorded correctly. These details include but are not limited to medical reports, treatment plans, a record of communication with the employer and insurance provider (if any), and any expense you have incurred concerning the injury.
- Not waiting for medical clearance before returning to work
Returning to work before getting the doctor’s approval not only harms your health but also weakens your case. Thus, despite the financial stress, it is in your best interest to wait for medical clearance before going back to work.
- Incomplete or inaccurate information
The employer or insurance company can refute your claim if you do not support it with correct and complete information. Hence, make sure everything you submit is detailed and as accurate as possible.
- Not seeking expert help
For someone with no experience, workers’ compensation is challenging. Thus, it is always better to seek assistance from law experts. They are professionals who can help you sail through and get all the support you deserve.
- Settling too early
It may sound surprising, but bargaining works here, too. The initial offer your employer makes may be low and may not be enough to cover all the financial, physical, and emotional damage you have sustained. Hence, do not settle with the first offer and consult your lawyer about how to negotiate better.
Final Words
Avoiding the above pitfalls ensures claiming workers’ compensation is a smooth process for you. Thus, make sure you do not make these mistakes and consult legal experts whenever required to get all the entitled benefits hassle-free.
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