Workers Compensation Lawyer
If you have been injured at work, the last thing you want to do is make a misstep that could impact your workers’ compensation case. Facing injuries from a work related accident could have a devastating impact on a victim. Not only could challenges faced stand to impact you physically and emotionally, the financial impact from possible lost wages can be detrimental to the life you once knew. Speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney may help when avoiding these common workers’ compensation mistakes:
Mistake #1 Failing to Report the Injury
After an injury, it’s important that you report the accident to your employer. By failing to do so, you put yourself at risk. By waiting too long to report an injury, your employer may question the validity of your workers’ compensation claim. The longer you wait, the more challenging it can be to prove your case, and ultimately receive the benefits you may be entitled to.
Mistake #2 Not Seeing a Doctor
Not seeking medical care after an accident, may make it more difficult to prove not only the severity of your injury, but that your injuries were directly related to the accident you obtained while at work. It’s important to seek medical care, not only because key evidence can be provided, but also to ensure that you receive the proper treatment for your injuries.
Mistake #3 Going Against Medical Advice
If you seek medical attention and do not follow the doctor’s recommendations, your injuries may worsen as a result. Additionally, it may not help in proving that you were impacted from the accident. Failing to follow medical advice may cause your workers’ compensation claim to be denied.
Mistake #4 Not Keeping Proper Track of Documentation
Workers’ compensation can be overwhelming. Don’t rely on your employer to retain evidence to support your case. Throughout your case, begin gathering documentation that will help support your claim for workers’ compensation.
Mistake #5 Not Consulting with an Attorney
An attorney can not only strategize should action be necessary, they will also work to protect your interests. Although in some cases, an attorney may not be required, you may want to at least consult with them to ensure that you are on the correct path. Some never speak with a workers’ compensation attorney because they believe their case is fairly straightforward, or that they can handle their case on their own. Many accident sufferer’s choose to handle their case on their own because they do not want to shoulder the expense of an attorney. In many cases, an attorney will provide complimentary consultations and may even work with you on a contingency basis. An attorney may be useful in maximizing the settlement you may be entitled to and helping to avoid any missteps.
To be injured on the job can not only be devastating for an employee, it can also be frustrating, especially if the accident was the result of an employer’s negligence. Workers’ compensation benefits may have the ability to help an employee who has been injured at work. Despite this, it may be beneficial to at least consult with a work injury lawyer first to ensure that you are taking the necessary steps following your accident.
If you have questions about your specific case, please contact a workers’ compensation attorney at Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt today to learn more.