Learning About Criminal Law Proceedings

Doing Your Part With Workers' Compensation Insurance

There are few benefits more valuable than the ones offered by workers' comp insurance. This free (to you) form of insurance provides you with much-needed help when you get hurt at work or by a work-related injury or illness. You can get many benefits as a result, but the two most well-known ones are medical expense coverage and a partial salary while you're out of work. You must take part in this process by making the right moves, not just to get your benefits started but on a continual basis. Read to learn what you need to know about keeping those benefits going as long as needed.

Show up and take action

Workers' compensation carriers are sticklers about details, and even a small mistake or misstep could put your benefits on hold. When a problem arises and you are told to supply additional information, you should take the request very seriously. Things don't always go as planned, but you can stay on the good side of the insurance carrier by complying in a timely manner. Here are just a few situations to stay alert to:

1. You are asked to send in medical information, a copy of your work restrictions, or more information about a claim form.

2. You are asked to attend an independent medical exam so that more information can be determined about your injury. This exam is not voluntary and participating is vital, especially if you are not ready to go back to work yet.

3. You are scheduled to attend a mediation session in an effort to work out issues with your claim.

4. You receive correspondence stating that your benefits are ending and you disagree. You only have a limited amount of time to file for an appeal, and there are no second chances with this issue.

5. You are scheduled to appear at a hearing of the workers' compensation board of your state.

Be an ace at keeping records

Staying organized is key because you may be shocked at how much paperwork comes your way when you have a claim in full force. You never know when a doctor's note, a medical receipt, or a letter from your employer will be needed to help you prove a point of contention with the carrier. Get some file folders and keep anything remotely connected to your injury. If you need to see a lawyer about your claim, it will be immensely helpful to have everything in one place.

Be aware of yourself when out in public

Fraud runs rampant in the workers' compensation industry with workers claiming to have injuries they don't really have. You should not be surprised, therefore, to find that you are being watched when you leave your home. You may be truly injured and have no intention of deceiving anyone, but even innocent behavior could become suspect if viewed out of context.

You may need a workers' compensation attorney if you are experiencing problems with your claim, so seek help and get the settlement you need.


Share