When an employee is injured while on the clock, they are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits through their job. These benefits are meant to help cover the cost of the damages and losses incurred because of the accident. This may include lost wages, hospital bills, medical expenses, prolonged therapy, a permanent partial impairment rating and more. If an employee is killed on the job, the dependents are also entitled to receive benefits.
If you were recently injured at work, it is in your best interest to learn what you can about workplace accidents and injury claims so that you may make the right decisions regarding your physical and financial recovery. If you have not been injured at work, it is still wise to learn these tips so that you are prepared if it ever happens to you or someone you love.
Continue reading to learn what you should and should not do in the case that you are injured at work and considering workers’ compensation.
Workplace Injury Claim Process
What You Should Do
To protect yourself and your rights to maximum compensation, be sure to make the right decisions in the process. This includes the following:
Report your injury immediately, whether you think you need medical care or not.
Demand that a written accident report is made on the spot and be sure to get a copy for yourself.
Immediately seek or accept medical attention.
Retain all paperwork and documentation of your accident, injuries, and medical care. Keep track of all the written restrictions and instructions given to you by your doctor.
If your employer makes any retaliations or threats regarding your claim, contact the Department of Labor immediately and report the harassment.
If you are unsatisfied with your medical treatment or diagnosis, ask for a second opinion.
Obtain an attorney. The worker compensation carrier for your employer has attorneys and you should also.
If you are denied certain benefits due to a “pre-existing condition”, be sure to protest with the help of an experienced Indiana workplace injury lawyer.
What You Should NOT Do
Do not fail to report your injury.
Do not decline medical attention. This can be harmful to you both physically and in terms of filing a claim.
Do not let the company’s case manager into your hospital examination room while you are with the doctor if you do not want them in there.
Do not let the workers’ compensation insurance carrier take too long to approve or deny your injury claim. There are state laws that mandate when they must respond. It is usually within 30 days after the claim is officially filed.
Do not believe your employer if they tell you there is a “minimum period” of employment that you must retain to receive workers’ compensation benefits. You are entitled to benefits immediately, no matter your length of employment.
Do not miss or reschedule any appointments that are made by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier. Missing too many appointments can revoke your right to certain benefits.
When you return to work, do not let your employer place you into a line of duty that violates your work restrictions provided by the treating doctor.
Are you having trouble getting what you need from your workplace injury claim? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled workers’ compensation attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can hold meetings over the phone, via online conferencing, or in person at our Indianapolis personal injury law firm.
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