Even if you, your co-workers and your employer do everything possible to maintain a safe work environment, you’re still at risk of injury. You never know what could go wrong at work, ranging from a slip and fall to an equipment accident.
Should you find yourself injured and unable to work, it’s critical that you turn your immediate attention to filing a workers’ compensation claim.
However, there’s something that you should always keep in mind: A denial is always a possibility.
On the plus side, there are steps you can take to protect against a workers’ compensation claim denial, including the following:
- Report the injury to your employer: You should do this as soon as possible, preferably immediately following the accident. If you can’t report the incident to your supervisor, reach out to the HR department. Your goal is to make it clear that your injuries were a result of your employment.
- Don’t wait to file a claim: Yes, you have a lot on your plate, such as receiving medical care, but don’t wait too long to file your workers’ compensation claim. Doing so can disqualify you from receiving benefits.
- Collect evidence: If you have any evidence backing up your claim that you were injured at work, collect it and keep it nearby just in case you need it. This helps protect against a situation in which your employer argues you weren’t injured at work.
- Receive medical treatment: This is where many people slip up. They go home, treat themselves and then try to file a workers’ compensation claim. Don’t do this. You must receive medical treatment for your injury. Let your medical team guide your recovery, while also providing feedback on when you should return to work.
It’s unfortunate, but even if you take these steps you could receive a workers’ compensation denial letter. There’s always a chance that your employer will do whatever they can to stop you from receiving benefits.
When you protect against a workers’ compensation claim denial from the start, you’re in much better position to receive benefits in the future. And when that happens, you’ll have the money you need to get by as you recover.