Workplace injuries can be serious, leaving you without the ability to work for an extended period of time and causing a ton of expenses in medical bills. This is why most businesses in the U.S. are required to carry workers compensation insurance, which can help cover those expenses related to a workplace injury.
If you are injured on the job and want to file a workers compensation claim, however, there are certain pitfalls you may want to avoid when it comes to filing for workers compensation benefits.
Getting Caught Up in the Details
An insurance agency’s claims adjuster will only want the basic information. Don’t get caught up in the details about the accident or anything not pertaining to the actual injury itself. This includes unrelated pre-existing conditions, previous issues you’ve had with your employer or other coworkers, etc. If you provide any reason that you may be exaggerating your injury, it could affect how much compensation you receive.
Hiding Facts
If you hide important facts or lie about any circumstance surrounding the accident, you could be accused of fraud and your workers compensation claim denied. In most instances, there are cameras and/or witnesses that can either corroborate or contradict your story. Hiding facts can have your compensation affected or even lead to the claim behind denied.
Story Inconsistencies
Even if you don’t mean to do so, you can accidentally forget information when recounting your story. After all, you will be required to explain the accident to your manager, the insurance claims adjuster, your healthcare provider and any other necessary parties. For example, if you tell the claims adjuster one thing and your healthcare provider something different about your injury, the adjuster and healthcare provider will communicate. If discrepancies are found, your claim could be challenged as fraud and denied.
Keep in mind that only an approved claim will provide compensation. You will not receive benefits if your claim is denied. After a workplace accident, make sure to immediately notify your manager and provide the most important information about the incident. It is important to file a claim as soon as possible. Many workers compensation policies have a limit on when you can file a claim—typically within 30 days of the accident.
File a claim and keep open communication with the insurance provider and your employer to make sure you get the best of your workers compensation claim.