Top Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

Workers’ compensation can protect you financially if you suffer an accident at work. Because it covers lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation, it’s crucial you get the most out of your workers’ compensation claim. Unfortunately, it’s easy to make mistakes during the claim process — costly mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars.

What can you do to maximize the amount of workers’ compensation you can claim for? The article gives you the top tips on getting the most out of your claim for workers’ compensation. 

5 Tips to Maximize Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

Getting the most out of your workers’ compensation claim requires taking appropriate steps. Unfortunately, if you miss some of these steps, you may lose the benefits you are entitled to. Please read on to find five ways to ensure you get the most from your claim.

1. Report the Injury Immediately

Don’t wait to report a work injury but inform your boss immediately. Your employer should have the necessary paperwork so that you can document what happened. You could miss out on compensation if you fail to report by the deadline or file your workers’ comp claim too late. 

Top tip when claiming workers’ compensation: Remember it’s illegal for your employer to stop you or harass you if you file a claim for work-related compensation.

2. Get Immediate Medical Attention

There are two reasons why it’s essential to get prompt medical attention. First, swift medical care dramatically increases your chances of recovery. After all, your health is the most important thing. Second, the doctor’s report is an essential document in making a successful claim. Some insurers may claim that any delay in seeking treatment is evidence that the injury wasn’t serious. 

Top tip to get the most from a workers’ comp claim: Consider changing doctors if you are unhappy with the workers’ compensation insurance company’s choice. In Massachusetts, state laws say you can change the doctor once without approval from the insurers. After that, you need permission, or you may lose your claim.

3. Know What Benefits Are Available to You

Depending on your situation, different benefits are available to you. It’s in your interest to find out what’s available to know what you can claim for. Insurers are unlikely to explain what’s available; therefore, getting legal advice is always advisable. 

Here is a list of the benefits you may be able to file a claim for:

• Medical coverage — Pays the cost of treatment and rehabilitation until you fully recover
• Temporary disability benefits — Compensation you receive while unable to work
• Permanent disability benefits — If your injury causes lasting damage and you can’t work, you can receive compensation
• Vocational rehabilitation — If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you get assistance to find a new one

4. Attend All Independent Medical Examinations (IME)

The insurance company arranges for independent medical examinations to assess your injury. During the IME, the insurer’s doctor will review your case to make a judgment on how the injury affects your ability to work. You may also have to attend an IME periodically when receiving workers’ compensation.

5. Beware of Insurance Company Tricks

It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to set up surveillance to see how credible your claim is. They want to check how you act in public and at home and if it complies with your claim and doctor’s reports. However, it can be easy for insurance companies to misinterpret what they see. If you suspect you are under surveillance, it’s advisable to speak to a lawyer who has experience in workers’ compensation claims.

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Receiving benefits for a work-related injury is crucial to reduce financial loss due to lost earnings. Unfortunately, insurance companies are “for-profit” organizations and will try to find ways to minimize the amount they pay you. Therefore it’s essential to retain an attorney with experience in workers’ compensation to get the most out of your claim. 

Contact our top workers’ compensation attorney Jane Eden at Eden Rafferty today to arrange a free consultation if you’ve suffered an injury at work.