Top Five Mistakes Made After a Job Injury
Have you been injured in a workplace accident? The workers’ compensation system is designed to quickly help injured workers get medical care and replace their lost wages. However, it’s far more complex than you may think. There are many loopholes, deadlines, and requirements to navigate, and a simple mistake at any stage can result in a denial of your claim.
Here are five common mistakes you should avoid after a work injury.
1. Failing To Report the Injury
One of the most common yet damaging mistakes you can make is failing to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. There are some exceptions, but you must usually report a work-related injury to your employer within 30 days.
If you fail to report the incident within this time limit, your workers’ compensation claim may be denied.
You can report the accident or illness to your employer or supervisor using the First Report of Injury or Illness form. This form should be supplied by your employer. It’s also available from the Florida Department of Financial Services.
Your employer should report the incident to the insurance company within seven days of receiving your report. Within three days of notice from the employer, the insurer must send you an informational brochure. This brochure explains your rights and provides information about Florida workers’ compensation law.
2. Providing Incomplete Or Inaccurate Information
When you file out the initial report and make your workers’ compensation claim, be sure the information you provide is complete and accurate:
- Inform your healthcare provider about all the symptoms you are experiencing
- Report any secondary injuries, such as a back injury that happened when you hurt your leg
- Any previous injuries should be reported, even if they were minor or not disclosed before
- Report any relevant pre-existing conditions, especially those that may have been aggravated or worsened by your accident
If you fail to report all your symptoms and previous injuries, your claim may be denied. The insurance company may claim your injury is primarily caused by a pre-existing condition or former injury. They may even claim you suffered another injury outside of work or that your injury is not as serious as you claim.
It’s even possible to face fraud charges for failing to report previous injuries or relevant pre-existing conditions.
3. Failing To Complete Treatment Or Follow Medical Advice
It’s crucial to attend follow-up appointments, complete any course of treatment prescribed, and strictly follow any medical advice you receive. If you fail to follow your treatment plan, the insurance company may reduce or end your benefits by claiming your injuries are not serious or they have been worsened by your actions.
Following your physician’s guidelines and completing treatment is important for your long-term health and recovery. It also strengthens your claim and helps you receive the full benefits you deserve.
4. Believing You Do Not Have a Claim
Unfortunately, many workers do not even file a workers’ compensation claim because they do not think their injury is eligible.
A workers’ comp claim can be filed for many reasons, such as:
- On-the-job injury
- Chronic illness caused directly by work conditions
- Repetitive strain injuries that develop over time
- A pre-existing condition that is worsened by the requirements of the job
- Injuries that occur while traveling for the job
To be eligible for coverage, your illness or injury must have been a direct result of the responsibilities or duties of your job or workplace conditions. You are entitled to benefits even if you did not miss work or there was no single incident that caused your injury as long as it was caused by the job itself.
5. Not Seeking Advice From an Experienced Attorney
Many injured employees assume they can handle their claims without a lawyer or believe the insurance company will honor their obligations and offer fair benefits. The truth is that workers’ compensation law is complex, and it can be very easy to make a costly mistake. The insurance company is not on your side; their goal is to minimize your benefits or deny your claim completely.
Do not sign anything that has not been reviewed by your own lawyer. Be careful speaking with the third-party administrator. Statements you make can be misconstrued and used against you.
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney will represent your best interests, not the insurance company’s or your employer’s. Your lawyer will ensure all deadlines are met and your claim is filed properly. A personal injury attorney can ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve.
A Workplace Accident Lawyer Can Help With Your Claim
Do you need help filing a claim after a work-related accident? Has your workers’ compensation claim been denied? Schedule a free consultation with a Jacksonville workers’ compensation attorney to discuss how they can help.
Contact the Jacksonville Workplace Accidents Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra Workplace Accidents law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167