Every state sets its own workers’ compensation laws. But, in most states, the employer and/or its workers’ compensation insurer contracts with specific medical providers. When an individual suffers an injury or illness that is work-related, he or she must seek care from a provider on that list for their medical benefits to be payable. Failure to see an approved workers’ compensation healthcare provider can result in your claim being denied and your loss of benefits. What to Do After a Workplace Accident If you have been hurt while working, you should report he injuries you suffered to your employer. Your supervisor or your human resources representative will have to complete an accident report. You will need to explain what happened. Be sure to tell your employer if there were witnesses, such as coworkers or customers. Witnesses who can support your claim are very beneficial. You must establish medical care right away with an approved provider, or your claim might not be approved. Pursuing a Workers’ Compensation Claim While state law might require that you be out of work for a specified timeframe before you are able to be compensated for a portion of your lost wages, your medical benefits should kick in right away. Just so long as you have notified your employer and used an approved provider, you can file your workers’ compensation claim and medical benefits should take care of your medical costs related to your work-related injury. If you must miss work, it must be indicated by your medical provider in writing. Workers’ compensation benefits aren’t applicable to lost wages if the missed work isn’t ordered by your physician because of your workplace injuries. Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim Workers’ compensation laws vary from one state to another. You will have specific deadlines for reporting your injury and for filing the required documentation as well as filing the claim. In some states, you notify your employer you wish to file a claim and they get the process started. In other states, you must notify the state labor board or workers’ compensation commission to get your claim underway. Even if you have a legitimate claim, that doesn’t mean that it will be approved. There are countless claims denied every year. Documentation is essential to your claim, and always keep copies of everything that you turn in to your employer. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have been injured in a workplace accident, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer who handles workplace injury claims understands how the process works and will make sure your documents are filed in a timely manner and that your claim gets the attention that it deserves. Medical bills can add up fast and if you are unable to work, you aren’t bringing home paychecks to provide for your family. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to get your workers’ compensation claim reviewed by an attorney who handles workplace injury claims. Additional Resources Can My Workers’ Comp Settlement Pay My Medical Bills? What Damages Can I Receive For My Claim?
