Workers who sustain an injury while performing their duties can seek compensation through the workers’ compensation insurance of their employers. But filing a worker’s comp claim can be a complex process. Avoiding mistakes is important to ensuring a successful claim submission. This can be done by working with an employment lawyer. Employees need to be vigilant about making mistakes that ruin their chances of getting the compensation they need. These mistakes include the following:
Not Reporting the Injury
When you file a workers’ comp claim, you must report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. Not reporting on time might result in skepticism regarding your claim’s legitimacy. By reporting the incident, you adhere to legal requirements and establish a link between your injury and the incident itself.
Failure to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Some employees underestimate the seriousness of the injury they suffered or think they can just tough it out. But some injuries may not present immediate symptoms and can get worse when left untreated. Prompt medical attention is vital to your health and well-being. Also, it establishes a record of your injury related to the work incident. Such medical documentation will be used as evidence when you file a claim.
Submitting Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Filing a successful workers’ comp claim relies on the accuracy and extensiveness of the information you provide. It’s important to reveal the full extent of your injury and symptoms. Otherwise, complications can arise during the claim process. You need to be transparent about all related details and tell your story thoroughly to build a strong case. Accuracy ensures that your claim reflects the effect of the workplace accident on your health and well-being.
Not Hiring an Attorney
A workers’ comp attorney will ensure you submit complete documents for your claim. They can guide you through the filling out of required forms and collection of supporting evidence. Although you can go through the claim filing process without a lawyer, having one on your side helps you avoid making costly mistakes. A great lawyer understands your rights as a worker and has experience negotiating for fair claim settlements.
Not Filing a Claim on Time
Injured workers should not wait too long to initiate a workers’ comp claim. The statute of limitations in Connecticut for this type of claim is only one year from the injury date. Claims for occupational disease have a statute of limitations of three years from the date their symptoms first show up. Not filing a claim within these deadlines can invalidate a claim.