You’re injured at work. You know you’re covered by workers compensation insurance, but what are the next steps? How do you ensure that you are receiving the coverage and medical attention you’re entitled to? Here are the five steps you need to take to make sure you’re on the path to receiving your workers compensation.
Report the Accident and Your Injuries to Your Employer
This is the first and most important step in receiving workers compensation. You need to let your employer know that the accident happened and what injuries you received as a result. This needs to be done as soon as possible after the accident occurred so that your employer can begin the claims process with their insurance company. Your employer should then give you a claim form to fill out and return.
See a Doctor
You should see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident occurred. Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, it’s important to have them checked out by a medical professional. Not only will this ensure that you receive the proper treatment for your injuries, but it will also create a record of your injuries that will be important in establishing your workers compensation claim.
File Your Claim with the Insurance Company
Once you have reported the accident and have seen a doctor, your next step is to file a claim with your employer’s workers compensation insurance company. Your employer should provide you with the necessary paperwork or help you file your claim online. Once your claim has been filed, the insurance company will assign an adjuster who will contact you to discuss your claim further.
Receive Approval for Workers Compensation Benefits
After reviewing your claim, the insurance company will determine whether or not you are eligible for workers compensation benefits. If they determine that you are eligible, they will approve your benefits and send you a Notice of Compensation Payable which outlines what benefits you will receive and for how long. If they deny your claim, they will send you a Notice of Denial of Compensation Payable which explains why your claim was denied and what you can do next. You may need to talk with a workers comp attorney if complications arise. They will be able to assist your case and fight for your compensation.
Begin Receiving Your Benefits
If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving benefits shortly thereafter. These benefits can include coverage for medical expenses, income replacement, and more. It is important to note that there are time limits for filing a workers compensation claim so if you have been injured at work, don’t delay in taking these steps.
Accidents happen, even at work. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic—you have options. Workers compensation exists to help protect employees who are injured on the job by covering things like medical bills and lost wages while they recover from their injuries. The process of receiving these benefits may seem daunting but we’ve broken it down into five easy steps: report the accident and injuries to your employer; see a doctor; file a claim with the insurance company; receive approval for benefits; and begin receiving benefits. So if you find yourself injured at work, take a deep breath and follow these steps—you’ll be on your way to recovery before you know it.