It is very stressful and traumatic to be injured at work. Your recovery from your injuries is going to take a while, and you’re also going to lose income at a time when you don’t have much. Worker’s compensation in California helps ensure that injured workers who are faced with this challenging time can receive financial assistance to cover medical expenses and at least a portion of lost wages.
It can, however, be difficult and confusing to file a workers’ compensation claim. The process is never error-free, and mistakes could jeopardize your claim. The majority of workers are unaware until it is too late that their mistakes during the workers’ comp process can result in their claim being denied or with less compensation than they deserve.
Frequently Made Mistakes That Could Hurt Your Claim
There are several mistakes that workers’ compensation claimants can and should avoid:
Inability to Report Injuries
You may be wondering when to report your work-related accident and injury. You should notify your employer and/or supervisor about your injuries as soon as possible. It’s also crucial that you do so in writing so that you have a record of your actions. A work-related injury must be reported to your employer within 30 days under California law.
Nevertheless, Siman Law Firm’s injury lawyers strongly advise you to notify your employer as quickly as possible about the occurrence and your injuries. Your employer must next file a declaration form with the California Division of Workers’ Compensation, as required by law. Failure to disclose your injuries promptly will cause your claim to be delayed excessively. You might not be able to get the recompense you need if you don’t report your injuries within the required time frame.
Not Receiving Medical Treatment on time
You could jeopardize your workers’ claim for damages if you do not seek timely treatment and support for your injuries, or if you do not complete your doctor’s treatment plan. Workers’ compensation funds are intended to assist injured workers in paying their medical expenses and making up for lost wages while they seem unable to work.
Taking No Medical Action
It could be interpreted adversely, giving the idea that you have not sustained injuries substantial enough to require time off work. Seeking medical help as soon as possible can not only help you recover faster from your injuries but will also help you keep track of the types of injuries you’ve had and the treatment you’ve gotten.
Mismanagement of Records
It’s critical to keep correct and comprehensive records if you’ve been injured on the job. Make a note of how many hours or workdays you missed as a result of your injury. It’s also crucial to keep track of all receipts, invoices, and documents related to your medical care. Such comprehensive documentation is essential to ensuring that you receive the reimbursement you are entitled to.
Having a Blind Trust in Your Employer and Insurer
Irrespective of how long you’ve worked for your employer or how valuable you are as an employee, it’s crucial to remember that if you’re hurt on the job and make a claim, your corporation and their insurance company will not put your best interests first. As with all insurance firms, your employer’s insurance company is going to pay the least amount for the claim. It’s possible that putting your faith in your employer and their insurance provider to do the right thing will prove to be a costly error.
Attempting To Managing Claim By Yourself
A worker’s compensation claim does not require an attorney, and on paper, you can handle it yourself. It is not a good idea to attempt such a complicated task on your own during a particularly stressful period. At this time, it is critical to have a qualified California workers’ compensation attorney on your side who can compile the necessary evidence to prove your case. Siman Law Firm in Los Angeles can help you in this regard.