Workers’ Compensation claims allow employees to recover financially from injury or disability resulting from current or prior employment. Most employers participate in workers’ compensation plans, which act as insurance to cover the costs associated with these claims. While employees don’t need to know all the intricacies of the system, there are at least a few things every claimant should know about the process.
Ensure Eligibility
It’s easy to get confused about what counts as an eligible injury and what does not, especially since the exact requirements are defined by each individual state government. A work-related injury is any physical trauma or disease that arises from a person’s employment, so there must be a link to the person’s activities at work. Aggravation of a preexisting condition, symptoms of cumulative damage or complications from a single incident can all be eligible for a compensation claim.
Records, Reports and Recovery
When it comes to making a successful claim, there is more to it than simply proving that an injury happened due to work. You should keep all written documents, recordings, interviews and anything else related to the injury, including all relevant communications and bills from medical professionals. It’s also important for claimants to actually participate in the treatment or therapy prescribed by their physician. Ignoring their advice or skipping appointments can weaken the claim.
Get Legal Advice
For many people making compensation claims, the stakes are incredibly high. This money is often essential for covering costs incurred while you can’t work. It can also cover the potentially large expenses of long-term physical therapy, vocational training and other services needed to get your life back on track. That’s why it’s a good idea to talk to professional compensation lawyers about building the strongest claim possible.
Be Honest and Accurate
Incomplete or misleading information on claim submissions can undermine an otherwise strong case. While it’s tempting for claimants to embellish details to make certain circumstances more favorable to them, this can seriously backfire if there’s a further investigation. Claims should have consistency between personal testimony, witness statements and other relevant documents. Providing ample information about the incident and subsequent recovery also ensures the case reviewers have all the facts they need.
Fighting for financial support by filing a compensation claim can take patience and persistence, but a positive verdict can offer life-changing benefits. While the process can be unpredictable at times, following just a few basic tips can make the whole experience less stressful and confusing.
Author information: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her three-year-old husky, Snowball.
