We also make sure that you understand every aspect of the claims process and what needs to be done, and we’ll walk you through the process to ensure everything is done efficiently.
After getting injured at work, you should report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. Then, you may want to consider finding a workers’ compensation lawyer to help you with the claims process.
Getting work injury attorney on your case can be the difference between getting compensation and being denied, so it’s best not to take any chances. When you’ve been hurt at work, contact a reliable Highwood work injury lawyer and get the claims process started.
Types of Commonly Occurring Workplace Injuries
When you get hurt at work, determining whether your situation will be eligible for workers’ compensation can be difficult. Often times, injuries that seem like they may not be eligible actually are, and learning more about the most common injuries that are eligible can help you compare your own situation.
Some of the most common workplace injuries include:
- Overexertion: Possibly the most common work injuries, these involve holding, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or throwing.
- Repetitive motion: Injuries caused by doing the same thing over and over.
- Workplace assaults: When one or more workers is assaulted at the workplace.
- Struck by an object: When a worker is hit by a falling or dropped object.
- Struck against an object: Injuries involving windows, doors, or walls.
- Slips and falls: Slipping and falling on slippery, wet, or uneven floors, or on uncleared sidewalks during the summer.
- Caught in/compressed by: Injuries that typically involve factory work and/or heavy machinery.
- Fall to a lower level: Falling off a ladder or roof, or down stairs.
- Traffic incidents: Injuries sustained during driving or using a company vehicle.
What You Should Know About Work Injury Cases
When you get hurt at work and hire a work injury attorney, they’ll be able to explain the ins and outs of the claims process. However, it’s important to be familiar with some of the aspects of the case on your own, as well.
For instance, knowing what the statute of limitations is for your injury, as well as what paperwork you’ll need to have available. You’ll also want to figure out what type of compensation to fight for, such as lost wages, medical bill reimbursement, permanent injury, or other compensation.
If you’re unsure of these things, working with a workers’ compensation lawyer will be able to explain all of the details with you.
The Claims Process
Filing a work injury case doesn’t have to be a headache. Working with a workers’ compensation lawyer can greatly simplify the process, in fact.
First things first though—you’ll need to notify your employer of the injury. Do this within seven days, or as soon as you can. Next, if you seek medical care, be sure to let the staff know your injury is work related, as your employer may require you to visit certain clinics or facilities for care.
Third, an insurance carrier will open up a benefits claim following reports from your employer and the doctors. After reviewing it, they will determine whether it is compensable or not.
If so, they will discuss with you and your employer what the rate of pay or benefits paid will be while you recover. If it is denied, though, you will have the option to appeal that.