Workers who sustain an injury while on the job may be entitled to financial compensation. From lost wages and healthcare costs to pain, suffering and long-term disability, the trust cost of a work-related injury can be much greater than you might expect. Determining whether or not you may be eligible for compensation and taking action in order to file your claim following an injury are both issues that require prompt action.
Type of Injury
Assessing the nature of an injury, the location where it occurred as well as the circumstances and chain of events that lead to a worker being injured is the first step in determining whether or not an injured worker qualifies for workers’ compensation. It is the responsibility of employers and business owners to provide their staff and associates with a safe working environment. Negligence on the part of your employer is an important factor for determining if any compensation is owed.
Medical Examination and Treatment
A formal medical examination is required in order to assess the extent and severity of an injury. Medical services are also essential for providing workers with treatment following an accident or other mishap. Minor symptoms can often mask the true extent of an injury creating an even greater need to arrange a medical examination at the earliest possible opportunity following a work-related injury.
Reporting Deadlines
Failing to file a claim before the deadline passes may leave you unable to obtain compensation, even if you have met all of the qualification criteria. Consulting with a workers’ compensation lawyer is often the best way to assess your situation, determine your options, and to ultimately move forward with the process of reporting an injury. Legal assistance, guidance, and even formal representation are not resources you will want to be without.
Other Complications
There are plenty of additional issues that may become a factor in determining your eligibility. Your insurance plan, coverage pertaining to short or long-term disability, and even your employment status may all need to be taken into consideration. Discussing your situation with an attorney, your insurance provider, or other representative may all be necessary steps in the process.
Being injured while on the job or worksite is never a situation that should be taken lightly. Failing to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, allowing the deadline to expire, or neglecting to take the appropriate action could leave you with no other option but to cover the cost of medical care and even lost wages out of your own pocket.
