Addressing Your Workers' Comp Case Head-On

In 2012, there were some 3 million on-the-job injuries recorded. Employers throughout the United States cover more than 140 million employees with workers' comp insurance policies. So if you end up being among those injured, you will need to take the right steps to get paid and make up for any lost income. 

To make the decisions that count the most during this time, read on.  

Report the accident in writing and make an official claim for workers' compensation

There is no substitute for timeliness when it comes to a workers' compensation case. If you have suffered any sort of injury at all while working, it is better that you report the injury at once, as opposed to trying to tough it out. When you do the latter, even if you have good intentions, you may ruin your chance at receiving a payout at best, and at worst you could be looked at suspiciously if you let the pain linger and report it at a later date. 

To this end, formally notify your manager or whoever handles human resources issues within the company. With the accident reported in writing, it is an official notification, and the job has a certain amount of time in which they have to respond to it. This is a proper way of handling things, so don't let any feelings of guilt creep in during this process. Putting the terms and details of the accident in writing is necessary so that your place of employment can file a workers' compensation claim and pay you the money that you need.

Speak to an attorney for guidance and help with possible litigation

You will definitely want to get help from a lawyer if you have a workers' comp case. They may play a minor role, simply giving you advice step by step on how to handle the situation with your job. They may also play a major role, acting as your advocate in a civil suit that spans a few years. 

Either way, take some time to really research lawyers until you have found the best professional to address your workers' comp claim. 

Get medical attention and be as consistent as you can

When you report the injury, you'll have to undergo a number of examinations so that the insurance company can verify your damages. This is also necessary so that you can start going to the physician and some specialists in order to heal your body. 

Be consistent both with the medical appointments and the explanation of how your accident occurred. This consistency and attention to detail will be what win you your case in the long run. 

Use these tips to make your workers' comp case a successful one. Reach out to a law firm like that of Prediletto, Halpin, Scharnikow & Nelson, P.S., for more information.