How do I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

After you’ve been badly injured at work, your mind might be reeling and overwhelmed with what is happening. However, you should stay focused and remain calm while collecting information to prove your claim. You need to show how you were injured at your workplace and also the extent of your injuries. Receiving medical care and an examination from your doctor will be key to showing how much you should receive. Additionally, working with a workers’ compensation attorney will help make sure you don’t exclude crucial information on your workers’ compensation claim. To get started, take the following steps: 

Take Photos

It is a good idea to take pictures of your wounds, the tools or equipment you might have been injured by, the area you were injured in, and any other related forms of evidence. These photographs can help prove that you were badly injured and will be used as proof. 

Report to Employer

You need to let your employer know that you were horribly injured at work. This needs to be done within 30 days of the date you were injured. They will submit a form to their insurance company alerting them of the incident. 

Get Medical Help

A qualified medical doctor will review all of your injuries and let you know how badly you were harmed. They will grade your injury according to a schedule or as an unscheduled wound. Additionally, they will estimate your Medical Maximum Improvement (MMI) to allow you to receive benefits up until your time of recovery. This information has to be reported as proof of what type of injuries you have and the type of medical treatment you require to get back to good health. 

Speak to Attorney

Reach out to a reliable workers’ comp attorney who can help you submit your claim smoothly. They will prevent you from wasting time submitting a claim riddled with errors. There may be crucial details or evidence you left out that can reduce your compensation amount or result in a denial.

Submit Claim

Once you submit your claim, you will have to wait a few weeks for it to be reviewed. The insurance company will investigate your injuries and review your case. During this time, they may reach out for additional information. You should stay on top of your case and make sure you submit the necessary paperwork before the deadline. An attorney can help perform these tasks for you. 

Agree to Settlement Terms

You will receive a settlement agreement that you can either accept or appeal. If you were denied, you also can enter into the appeal process. Once you accept the letter, you can start receiving benefits up until your MMI. 

What Should I Do If I Need to Submit an Appeal?

If you were denied or received less in compensation than you deem worthy, speak to an attorney as soon as possible. Not only will a workers’ compensation attorney inform you of how much you should receive, but you will also help fight for your right to a fair settlement agreement. They will investigate your claim, update your workers’ compensation application, and represent you before the appeal board. To find out more information on how to get started, you can read more at: hansfordlawfirm.com/macon/