Understanding Personal Injury Law

Workers Compensation: 4 Things You Should Do To Maximize Your Claim

16 February 2023

Celina Nichols

You can be hurt or injured at work, even after maintaining the recommended safety standards. However, what you do after sustaining injuries matters a lot. Filing a workers' compensation claim as soon as possible makes more sense because those injuries could later have adverse consequences. The injuries may seem minor, but you don't know how they will affect you several years later. Luckily, you can maximize your claim by doing the following four things. 

Do What Your Doctor Says

Some people want to "tough it out" whenever they are injured in their workplace, but this is wrong. You should instead book an appointment with your doctor to get treatment for your injuries. Some people don't seek medical help because they assume they just sustained minor injuries. But it's a bad idea because complications from those injuries could manifest several years later when it's too late to be compensated. Remember that medical records are vital when seeking workers' compensation because they demonstrate the severity of your injuries and the medical expenses incurred. So if you don't follow your doctor's instructions or appointments, you won't maximize or make the most of your claim.

Don't Falsify Symptoms or Injuries

You should strengthen your workers' compensation claim, but you should be careful how you do it. Don't falsify the symptoms or embellish your injuries to win. Usually, faking injuries could complicate the case and ruin your claim in a big way. Some work injury victims fake their injuries to get more money, but it eventually destroys or devalues their case. So be honest and don't exaggerate your injuries in any way.

Seek Guidance from a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The insurance adjuster may seem friendly or nice to you, but you should be careful. They may not have your interests at heart as you think. However, a workers' compensation attorney is a reliable and trustworthy friend who can help you maximize your claim. They analyze your claim and help you make rational decisions. The lawyer evaluates the proposed settlement, points out what you haven't included, and guides you when signing the compensation documents. They also evaluate your injuries and losses and negotiate a favorable settlement on your behalf.

Notify Your Employer

Let your employer know you sustained injuries while working. Failure to do so may weaken your claim and complicate the process. Usually, you should do so within the set period, though it varies from state to state. You can inform them about it orally, though it's more appropriate to do it in writing. Include your phone contacts, addresses, name, and any other information that could add value to your claim. Also, describe how you sustained the injuries and ensure you collect evidence that proves you deserve compensation.

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