Filing A Workers Compensation Claim: 3 Facts That You Should Know

21 January 2015
 Categories: Law, Blog

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If you were injured on the job, you could be eligible for workers compensation benefits. Unfortunately, if you are like many injured workers, you may be a bit hesitant to apply for these benefits as a result of a few common myths that often lead workers to believe their claim will ultimately be denied. Taking the time to review the three facts below can help you to do away with these myths and get the compensation that you are entitled to.

Fact: A Failure To Report Your Accident Immediately Does Not Mean An Automatic Denial

Workers are often led to believe that they will be denied workers compensation benefits if they did not report their injuries to a supervisor immediately. However, the truth is, the law recognizes that it can take several days or even several weeks for some injuries to fully develop. Consequently, a failure to immediately report your accident does not mean that you will automatically be denied the benefits that you deserve.

Fact: Your Employer Cannot Terminate You For Filing A Workers Compensation Claim

It can be difficult for many workers to really stand up to their employers and insist that they are paid the benefits that they need and deserve after being injured on the job. With many of these workers relying on their ability to eventually return to work, the idea that they could be terminated, demoted, or otherwise punished for pursing a workers compensation claim can be a significant deterrent.

If you are worried about your employer retaliating as a result of your decision to file a claim, you should know that the law protects you from this type of retaliation. In fact, if your employer has mistreated you in any way as a result of your decision to file a claim, you could be entitled to additional compensation as a result of this illegal action. In order to learn more about this type of compensation and to put a stop to this illegal action, be sure to contact a reputable attorney in your local area.

Fact: You Don't Have To Visit A Specific Doctor

While your employer is free to recommend the use of any physician, hospital, or clinic that they like, they cannot force you to seek treatment at any specific location in order to make use of your workers compensation coverage. Furthermore, if you do choose to seek treatment from the doctor or facility that they recommend, you can choose to seek a second opinion at another location as well. Most importantly, you should know that your employer is still responsible for covering the cost of your medical bills regardless of where you choose to receive treatment.