Don’t Be the Worst Enemy of Your Own Workers’ Compensation Claim! We Share Steps for Success Here

Most of us do not anticipate getting hurt at work. In fact, the only thing we usually prepare for is how to prevent injuries. Because of a prevalent attitude geared toward prevention instead of reaction, most people are completely stymied when it comes to workers’ compensation claims for workplace injuries. While an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure, what do you do when you find yourself requiring the cure?

Tricks of the Trade: Making a Strong Case for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

After you have been injured in the workplace, it can be difficult to know where your priorities lie. Below, we break down your top priorities immediately following your injury.

Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible.

Do not wait a day or two to see if you can “walk it off”; if you have been hurt on the job, let your employer know immediately and fill out the required paperwork.

Fill out your paperwork honestly and carefully.

Any incorrect or fraudulent information can jeopardize your claim for compensation. Make sure that anything you submit has been checked for accuracy.

Cooperate fully with your physician.

Much of your case rests on how fully you invest yourself in a complete recovery. Attend all scheduled appointments, including for exams and physical therapy, and ensure that you are following your doctor’s orders to the letter.

Do not refuse to take a drug or alcohol test following your workplace injury.

Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance will generally require you to submit to a drug and alcohol test following your injury. This is not to get you in trouble; this is simply to verify that your injuries were not the result of being impaired on the job. Refusal to take the test may lead to the assumption that you were under the influence, which could prevent you from receiving benefits.

Return to work as soon as you are able.

If your doctor has cleared you for light duty, you need to return to work and attempt the work assigned to you that the doctor has cleared.

Being hurt on the job is a scary prospect for people as they worry about their finances and their future.

Have You Been Injured At Work?

If you’ve been injured on the job you need to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Augusta office directly at 706.863.6600 to schedule your free consultation.