How Construction Site Workers Optimize Compensation Claims
Working in construction is an attractive job for millions of people across the country. There are a wide variety of roles for a person to choose from, the pay is usually quite good, and most of the time, it provides stable employment.
Unfortunately, construction jobs also lead to thousands of workers’ compensation claims every year whether it’s due to a specific incident that injures a worker on the spot or a situation where an injury occurs over a long period of time. If you find yourself being forced to file a claim, there are a few things you need to know that will help you optimize the amount that you receive.
Keep Detailed Records of Injuries
The more detailed you are about the injuries you received, whether due to one specific incident while at a construction site or over a period of time, the better your chances of maxing out your claim benefits. Make a note of every ache, pain, and other type of distress that you’ve experienced either since the accident occurred or when you first felt any ill effects.
Report the Injury Regardless of Severity
Even if your injury is only slight, you should always treat it as one that could worsen over time or have unknown effects on your body or ability to work. If you believe that you’re experiencing something that goes beyond basic aches and pains, then it’s always recommended to reach out right away so that your injuries are documented over time.
Get a Medical Assessment Right Away
Not only do you want to keep a record of your injuries and report them regardless of severity, you also need to have a medical assessment done. Don’t listen to someone in your human resources department that tries to downplay your injuries and doesn’t see a need for a medical evaluation. Injuries on construction sites are common, so you shouldn’t be getting any type of pushback.
Retain an Attorney Familiar with Claims
When it comes to optimizing your workers’ compensation claim, not all attorneys are created equal. What you need to look for is one who has ample experience in dealing with every step of the claims process, especially as it relates to construction site accidents, so that you can increase your chances of maximizing your results.
Don’t Embellish Your Injuries
As we said above, it’s important not to downplay your injuries. But just as important, you should never embellish your injuries, either. This will only increase your chances of the claim being denied or a refusal to pay you a fair amount due to what could be considered dishonesty on your part. It is a well-known fact that construction site injuries are common, so just be straightforward and honest.
If You Must Miss a Doctor’s Appointment, Note Why
Once you file a workers’ compensation claim, you’ll have a series of doctor’s appointments for both assessment and treatment. It is very important that you keep these appointments whenever possible so that your injuries are clearly legitimate. If you must miss one, note exactly why you couldn’t make it and reschedule right away.
Dispute the First Settlement Offer
Contrary to what you might have been led to believe, insurance companies don’t really exist to help you maximize your benefits. They’re a business just like any other that must concern themselves with their bottom line. Because of this, it’s important that you always refuse the initial settlement offer. An experienced attorney can negotiate a better settlement.
Whenever you have a worker’s compensation claim, it’s always best to have an attorney by your side who will fight to get you fair compensation. The attorneys at Mintz Law Firm have years of experience in dealing with these claims, so we know the ins and outs. Give us a call today for a free consultation.