Should you file a workers’ comp claim?
If you sustain an injury at work, you may wonder what to do next. Securing monetary compensation for time lost at work and medical expenses is vital to your recovery process.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim is one step toward restoring your financial security after a workplace accident.
Can you file a workers’ comp claim?
If you need medical attention or time off work due to performing your required work responsibilities, you can file a workers’ compensation claim. Potential causes of job-related trauma or injuries can include:
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Chemical exposure trauma
- Material handling injuries
- Damages resulting from equipment or tool malfunctions
- Overuse injuries
When should you file your job injury claim?
When you have a workplace injury claim, time is of the essence. Insurance carriers may deny your benefits if you wait too long to file after becoming sick or hurt. Insurance companies view a delay as an indication that your case may not be legitimate, which lessens your chance of receiving compensation.
As soon as you know your job caused your illness or injury, start the process of filing. The first steps are to notify your employer and then record a formal claim. Include all relevant details, such as where the injury happened, the time and date of the event and any pertinent information regarding how the incident occurred. Add a list of witnesses who were present during the accident.
Workers’ compensation benefits cover about two-thirds of your average weekly wage while you are off work, and a timely claim should also cover medical expenses for treating the injury.