Whether you work in an office or on a construction site, workers’ comp coverage can offer important financial help if you have an injury on the job.
Workers’ compensation benefits can include payment for medical bills related to your injury. You may also be able to receive payments for lost income while you recover. However, to receive these benefits, it is important that you take certain steps immediately after a job injury.
1. Tell your employer about your injury
When you experience an injury while on the job, you should report it to your employer or supervisor as soon as you can. Make sure to explain how and when the injury happened. Report an injury even if it seems minor and does not require immediate medical care.
2. Seek medical care early
If your injuries are severe, you may need emergency medical care. However, it is important to visit a doctor after any work injury. This helps create a record of your injury and its impact on your health. If you need to apply for WC benefits, these records may help in your case. Keep in mind that your employer may require you to visit an approved doctor.
3. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
It is also important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment after an injury. Make sure that you have let him or her know that your injuries happened on the job. You should also make sure to keep track of all your medical records, including doctor’s visits, treatments, prescriptions and other medical needs.
Even after following these steps, you may find that the insurance company denies your claim. However, a first denial may not be final. You may want to appeal the decision if you feel that you deserve WC benefits under the law.