Posted in Wisconsin Workers Compensation Related News
An employee that gets hurt while working should report the incident to their employer, and seek medical attention if it is needed. The workers compensation claim process can quickly become confusing and complicated for an employee, especially if he or she has never filed for such benefits before. There are many things that can go wrong, especially if your injury is going to be costly. Your employer may try to fight the injury claim or try to discourage you from pursuing workers compensation in the first place. If you believe your employer is somehow being negligent or unlawful when handling your claim, you may want to seek the help of the best workers compensation attorney.
In the article to follow, we have answered a single very common question those who are applying for workers compensation benefits may ask about the injury claim process.
What are some things that can go wrong during my workers compensation claim?
From beginning to end of your workers compensation claim process, an employee should keep a keen eye out for any red flags that their employer is mishandling their claim or retalitating. It may also be a good idea to keep in mind a few other ways your claim may go awry:
#1 – Failing to report the injury accident to your employer.
An employee must always let their employer know when an injury has happened. Then, the forms for benefits must be filled out accurately and entirely. Incomplete paperwork may result in a denial or delay in receiving benefits.
#2 – Not submitting a claim on time.
After reporting the injury and being seen by a doctor, follow up with your employer to confirm your workers compensation claim was submitted promptly. You may ask for a copy of the paperwork to keep for your own records. A claim turned in late could result in a rejection of benefits which may have been rightfully owed in the first place.
#3 – Not being forthcoming about symptoms.
Whether you have to see the work-assigned doctor or your own personal doctor, express all aches, pains, soreness and any other symptoms of the injury. Medical evaluations carry significant weight especially if for some reason a dispute arises. Benefits can be determined based on the accident report, in addition to the severity of an employee’s condition which has been described by the examining doctor.
#4 – Not following doctor’s recommendations.
Workers compensation benefits were created to help an employee as he or she recovers from the work-related injury. However, if you do not attend your scheduled doctor appointments or follow doctor’s orders, the continuation of benefits may be at risk for cancellation.
#5 – Returning to work too soon.
Your employer may want you to come back to work sooner than planned in order to cut costs. Your boss may even try to pressure you to do job duties that your doctor has not yet deemed you are able to complete. If this happens, it is recommended that an employee consults with an attorney as soon as possible.
If you have questions about your specific case, please contact a workers’ compensation attorney at Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt today to learn more.
