You were injured at work. Now what? Unless you are considered an unpaid worker or independent contractor, you should be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Following these 8, easy steps can help to ensure that you submit all required documentation, improving the chances of your workers’ compensation claim being approved. Continue reading to find out how to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Step 1- Receive Medical Care
Your health and safety is of the utmost importance. The first thing you should do following a workplace injury is to receive medical care. If you have a non-emergency, it is important to find out who your employer’s authorized medical care provider is, but if you’re in an emergency, go to the closest hospital.
Step 2- Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Follow your doctor’s orders and keep up with all treatments and follow up on all required medical visits. Be honest with your doctor about what happened, as well as any current medical conditions you may have. This can ensure that you receive the best care that you need. Collect any medical reports that you receive.
Step 3- Notify Your Employer
New Jersey law requires that you notify your employer of the injury as soon as possible. Legally, you must do this within 90 days of the injury, but it is best to do it sooner, if possible. Notify them in person or by phone and then follow up with an official, written letter. Keep your own copy of the formal notice.
Step 4- Work With The Representative
Once your employer notifies the state of your injury, they will assign a workers’ compensation representative to your case. If you are out of work for at least seven days, then you should begin receiving temporary benefits after the week hold period. The representative may request additional proof from you. They may also request that you get another medical opinion.
Step 5- Receive Medical Benefits Or Consider Your Options
You should receive medical benefits soon after notifying your employer. If you don’t, you may need to consider your other options, such as getting legal help. Additionally, if your case was denied and you believe it was wrongly done so, then you may begin the process of filing an appeal.
Step 6- Focus On Recovery
Working with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery. The longer that it takes for you to recover, the longer until you can return to work.
Step 7- Continue With The Appeals Process
If your case was denied and you’re still not receiving benefits, then you will want to work closely with your lawyer on the appeals process. The court will schedule an informal hearing.
Step 8- Evaluate Your Progress
It is important to continue focusing on your recovery. Don’t return to work before you’re comfortable doing so.
Contact A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
Whether you were recently injured while at work, or you’re trying to navigate a confusing workers’ compensation claim, a lawyer may be able to help. Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you and tell you when you need to be better. Hire your own representation and ensure that your legal rights and worker benefits are protected along the way.
Contact A Little Falls Workers’ Compensation Lawyer To Discuss Your New Jersey Workplace Injury Case
A workplace injury can be devastating, particularly if it prevents you from returning to work for an extended period of time. Although New Jersey Workers’ Compensation laws are supposed to provide you with reimbursement for medical expenses and replacement pay for missed time at work, it is not always easy to get the Workers’ Comp benefits you deserve. That is why you should speak with a knowledgeable Workers’ Compensation lawyer about your situation and get guidance throughout the claims process. The experienced Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Camili & Capo, PA represent clients in Little Falls, Clifton, Paterson, Nutley, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 834-8457 or email us today to schedule a consultation about your work injury case. Our main office is located at 1 Lower Notch Road, Little Falls, NJ 07424.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
