Workplace accidents can occur when you least expect them. Few people anticipate getting injured on the job, but when it happens, it’s crucial to know what steps to take next.
How you handle a workplace injury can help to determine both how well you’ll heal and if you’ll be able to make a successful workers’ compensation claim.
Who qualifies for workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a statewide insurance program that’s a crucial safety net for employees who sustain injuries while on the job. It offers medical benefits and wage replacement to employees injured during their employment. To qualify for workers’ compensation, you typically need to meet the following criteria:
- You must be an employee
- You injury or illness must be work-related
- You must report the harm within a specified timeframe
As such, you should seek immediate medical attention when injured on the job. Not only can this help ensure that you receive necessary care, but it also creates a medical record, which can be crucial when filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Equally important to seeking immediate medical attention is reporting the injury to your employer within a specific timeframe. Failure to do so could jeopardize your ability to claim workers’ compensation benefits.
The workers’ compensation claim process
When informing your employer about your injuries, try to ensure the notification is in writing and include important information like the date, time and location of the incident. Your employer or the company’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier will provide you with the required paperwork to initiate your claim. This paperwork typically includes a claim form and instructions for completing it. Fill out the form accurately and thoroughly.
Please note that your medical condition will be assessed by a healthcare provider chosen by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. This examination will define the extent of your injuries and the treatment you need.
Experiencing a workplace injury can be a daunting and stressful ordeal. However, understanding the workers’ compensation process can make a big difference. Taking the necessary legal action can increase your chances of receiving the required medical care and compensation to support your recovery.