How to Maximize Your Workers Comp Claim

With so many hard-working men and women in the workforce today, the possibility of being injured on the job is a real concern for millions of Americans. When you are no longer able to work or are limited in what you can do because of a serious injury, workers’ compensation can help you receive financial relief.

The compensation you receive, however, is determined by a few different factors that you need to consider. Let’s take a look at what you can do following a work injury that will allow you to maximize your worker’s compensation claim.

Report the Injury Immediately

Any delay in reporting your injury could have consequences in terms of your claim being approved or how much you receive in compensation. The sooner you report the injury following an accident or after you’ve identified an injury, the more smoothly the process will go. Be sure to report your injury in writing.

Seek Prompt Medical Attention

Whether an injury occurs due to a single instance or over time, seeking prompt medical attention is essential to maximizing your workers’ compensation claim. This will begin a paper trail of your injuries and expected treatments, which can be essential throughout the process. In an emergency, you should seek treatment at an emergency room. However, for non-emergency injuries, you should seek treatment from the medical providers designated by your employer.

Be Truthful About Your Injuries

The last thing you want to do is embellish or flat-out lie about injuries you’ve received in order to get a higher reward amount. Insurance companies will often investigate a person’s claim – including sending a private investigator to observe you in the event that they don’t believe you – so be sure to stay honest.

Don’t Cancel Doctor’s Appointments

Everyone understands that “life happens” and that cancelling appointments from time to time is unavoidable. If you cancel them on a regular basis, however, then those who approve or monitor your claim may have a difficult time believing that you actually need treatment.

Hire an Experienced Attorney

When you file a workers’ compensation claim, it’s always best to have someone on your side who will fight for your rights. An attorney who is experienced with filing workers’ compensation claims will understand all of the ins and outs of the process, and will be able to help you maximize your settlement.

Don’t Accept the Insurance Company’s Initial Offer

It’s important to remember that an insurance company is just like any other business, which means they don’t like paying out more than they absolutely have to for any claim, even when injuries are obvious. Never accept the adjuster’s first settlement offer. Better yet, get an attorney as instructed below and have them deal with negotiation.

If you’ve been injured on the job, your best recourse is to hire an attorney with experience in workers’ compensation claims. Reach out to the qualified attorneys at Mintz Law Firm for a free case evaluation today. We will fight for your rights and help you receive the highest settlement amount possible.