What You May Not Know About Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation benefits have long been a point of confusion for many workers in the nation. The rules and regulations can be complex, and not every employer follows them, making it important to be accountable for your own knowledge and learn as much as possible about the workers’ compensation laws in your state.

General Guidelines for Workers’ Compensation Claims

• Report every illness or injury:

  Rules vary by state, but the most important thing to remember is that there is a time limitation for reporting an injury or illness. Report problems as soon as they arise to your company’s human resources department. You should receive an incident report—fill it out thoroughly and wait for a reply about your claim from your employer’s insurance provider. If you do not receive a reply within the first week, there may be an issue, and it could be helpful to contact a work site accident attorney for assistance. Ensure your legal representation practices in the same state as your claim. For example, if you live and were injured in North Carolina, a law firm like Teddy, Meekins, & Talbert may be a suitable choice.

• Visit the appropriate medical providers:

  Depending on your employer’s compensation coverage, you may need to see a specific medical provider to be eligible for financial compensation. In emergency situations, document everything possible during and after treatment.

• Communicate that your injury occurred at work:

  No matter where you receive treatment, clearly communicate to healthcare providers that your injury occurred while at work. Documentation for on-the-job injuries differs from non-work-related injuries and initiates the workers’ compensation claim process. The healthcare provider will contact your company’s insurance company for payment of accrued charges.

• Talk to your employer about their workers’ comp coverage:

  Maintain open communication with your employer regarding their workers’ compensation coverage. Workers should be fully informed about their employer’s ability to protect them in case of an injury.