Timing is essential when filing your workers’ compensation claim because it determines whether you get the money you deserve or not. Just imagine all the bills you’d have to take care of by yourself, especially hospital bills, disability costs, rehabilitation costs, not to mention the lost wages. Not everyone has the amounts of money needed to handle all the expenses after incurring an accident at work. Luckily, you can avoid waking up to such a horrible reality by simply filing a workers’ comp claim immediately after getting injured.
Perhaps you work in the construction industry and were severely hurt recently due to a faulty machine. Filing for a claim on your own can seem daunting, especially if you don’t know what to expect. That’s why we’ve prepared below the steps you should take when filing a workers’ compensation claim against your employer. Have a look.
Step 1: Report Your Injury to Your Boss
The first thing to do is tell your employer about your accident either face-to-face or in writing. We recommend submitting a written report because it proves when you notified your employer of your injuries. In various states, you risk being denied compensation if you fail to file within 30 to 90 days after your accident. However, you have 24 months to file the compensation claim in Kentucky.
In case your accident at work is severe and you’re unable to file the complaint yourself, your family members or close friends can file it on your behalf. This reason is why it’s important to talk to your family about the dangers of your work and the steps they should take during an emergency.
Step 2: Get Your Medical Treatment
Even if you feel your accident wasn’t a big deal, we recommend booking an appointment with your doctor. What if you have internal injuries? What if the injury is affecting one of your vital organs? Receiving timely treatment can save your life.
Besides, once you file the workers’ claim, the insurance company will hire an insurance investigator to check if your claims are valid. If you have no medical records, the insurance company can use it to argue that perhaps you were never injured. In some cases, if your injuries are evident but you lack the medical records, the insurance company can take advantage and give you a lesser compensation.
Step 3: Make Sure You File the Claim Correctly
Imagine waiting to receive your workers’ compensation, but then you realize your submitted paperwork is incomplete. It can be frustrating, especially if your bills are already piling up. Therefore, make sure you send the correct forms and attach the required documents. We also recommend keeping a copy of every single bill, letter, form, and medical report.
Need Help Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Are you wondering how to submit the correct forms and file everything correctly to receive your workers’ compensation as soon as possible? Well, worry not because we’ve got your back at Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer. All you have to do is give us a call today if you or someone you know recently had an accident at work, and we will help you file the workers’ compensation claim and fight for fair compensation. Try Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer for a free quote today!
