3 Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Workers’ Comp Case
Around 2.8 million people in the United States suffer from nonfatal, workplace injuries every year. Some of these injuries are mild and heal with time; others are severe and life-altering. Whatever the nature of the injury, employees can claim workers’ compensation to help cover their medical bills as well as lost wages.
Have You Committed These Workers’ Comp Mistakes?
For injured employees, workers’ comp can be lifesaving. This is why it’s so important to approach your case with care. If you’ve been injured on the job, here are three mistakes that can ruin your workers’ comp case.
You didn’t report your injury. If you suffer any sort of injury while on the job, even if you don’t think you’ll need medical treatment, tell your supervisor promptly. No matter how mild it may seem at the time, your condition can change. It’s important to have an accurate record of your injury.
You didn’t discuss your restrictions with your employer. After an injury, your doctor will likely put you on restrictions based on what you can and cannot do. This could include not lifting anything over 10 pounds or not raising your arms above your head.
If your doctor puts you on restrictions, you need to discuss these with your employer. This can be difficult, especially if your restrictions would prevent you from being able to perform your regular job. However, employers are legally required to reasonably accommodate employees with doctor’s restrictions. Additionally, opening this dialogue with your employer shows you are serious about recovering and continuing to work if possible, which can greatly benefit your case. If you aren’t sure how to have this conversation with your employer, your lawyer can help.
You waited too long to file your claim. One of the worst things you can do for your case is wait. In Georgia, injured employees must file for workers’ comp benefits within one year of the accident date or they lose their right to compensation. Your medical needs could last a lot longer than a year, so make sure you have a legal claim to the benefits you deserve.
When it comes to workers’ comp, it’s important to remember that everybody who is injured on the job is entitled to medical treatment. Don’t be afraid to talk to a lawyer and discuss your options. If you’ve been injured on the job, get help from an experienced workers’ comp attorney by calling (770) 766-0555 today.
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