Have you ever been injured on the job? It can be a frustrating experience, especially when filing your workers compensation claim.

From failure to report injuries promptly to attempting to handle the claim alone, there are several common mistakes that people make when filing their claims. But don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’ll review these common mistakes and provide tips for avoiding them to get the compensation you deserve. Read on to learn more!

Failure to Report the Injury on Time 

One of the employees’ biggest mistakes when filing a worker’s compensation claim is failing to report the injury on time. Reporting your work-related injury promptly is crucial, as it helps ensure you receive proper medical attention and timely benefits.

In Ohio, workers are required to report their workplace injuries within two years from the date of the incident. However, it’s important to note that delaying reporting can weaken your case and may even result in denial of your claim.

Reporting an injury early not only gives you access to medical care but also ensures that there is sufficient evidence linking the accident or occupational exposure with your injuries. This documentation will be vital for proving causation later during settlement negotiations or litigation.

Failing to Seek Medical Treatment

One common mistake when filing a worker’s compensation claim is failing to seek medical treatment for work-related injuries. It is important to seek medical attention immediately after sustaining an injury at work, even if it seems minor. Delaying or avoiding medical treatment can seriously affect your health and your worker’s compensation claim.

When you delay seeking medical treatment, you risk aggravating the injury and causing further damage, which could require more extensive treatment and recovery time. Additionally, not receiving proper care can lead to long-term health issues that may affect your ability to perform your job duties.

Failing to seek medical treatment can also negatively impact your worker’s compensation claim. Insurance companies may use this as evidence that the injury was not severe enough to warrant benefits or caused by something other than work-related activities.

Filing an Incomplete or Inaccurate Claim 

When filing a worker’s compensation claim, accuracy and completeness are crucial. Providing incomplete or inaccurate information can delay the processing of your claim or even a denial of benefits altogether. It is important to take the time to review your claim thoroughly before submitting it.

One common error when filing a worker’s compensation claim is failing to include all relevant information. This could include details about how the injury occurred and any witnesses who saw what happened. Failing to provide this information could result in your claim being denied due to lack of evidence.

Another mistake people often make is providing inaccurate details on their claim forms. This could be as simple as misspelling a name or getting an address wrong, but even small errors like these can cause problems. It’s important to double-check the information you provide on your claim form for accuracy.

Inaccurate medical documentation can also be problematic when filing a worker’s compensation claim. If you fail to report all symptoms related to your injury or do not accurately describe the extent of your injuries, it may impact whether or not you receive full benefits.

Not Following Through with Medical Treatment 

After suffering a work-related injury, it is critical to seek medical treatment immediately. However, it’s not enough to go once and assume that everything will be okay. Following through with the prescribed treatment plan until full recovery is essential.

Failing to complete medical treatment can severely affect your worker’s compensation claim. If you do not finish your treatment, the insurance company may argue that you no longer need benefits since you didn’t take all the necessary steps toward recovery.

In addition, if your condition worsens due to neglecting medical treatment, the insurance company may deny additional benefits as they could argue that your negligence caused further harm and expenses.

Not Keeping Track of All Expenses

One of the most common mistakes when filing for worker’s compensation claims is not keeping track of all expenses related to a work-related injury. This mistake can be costly and may result in losing out on compensation that you rightfully deserve.

It is crucial to keep detailed records of all expenses, including medical bills, transportation costs, and lost wages. By doing so, you will have solid evidence to support your claim and ensure that you are compensated fairly.

Medical bills can add up quickly after an injury, and it is essential to keep track of them carefully. Make sure to keep copies of invoices, receipts, and other relevant documents related to medical treatment.

Transportation costs such as ambulance fees or gas expenses for driving back and forth from medical appointments should also be recorded accurately. Even small amounts can add up over time.

Attempting to Handle the Claim Alone 

Worker’s compensation claims can be complex and overwhelming to handle alone. Many people make the mistake of attempting to file a claim without legal representation, only to find themselves struggling with the process and potentially jeopardizing their case.

An experienced worker’s compensation attorney has in-depth knowledge of state laws that govern workers’ rights. They understand the intricacies of filing a successful claim and are equipped to navigate any challenges or obstacles that may arise.

A worker’s compensation attorney will work closely with you from start to finish, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way. They will also help you gather all necessary evidence, complete paperwork accurately, and meet deadlines.

Failing to Appeal a Denied Claim 

As an employee injured on the job, it is essential to file a worker’s compensation claim. However, sometimes claims get denied for various reasons, such as missing information or even errors made by the employer. In case of a denied claim, appealing is crucial.

Appealing provides you with another chance to receive the benefits that are rightfully yours. The appeals process requires several steps and can be time-consuming, but working with an experienced attorney can make things easier.

The appeal process starts with filing an appeal within 14 days of your original claim being denied. Then there will be a hearing where you must present your case in front of an administrative law judge who will decide if your appeal gets approved.

It’s important to provide evidence supporting your claims during this hearing to help persuade the judge in your favor. Your attorney can help gather convincing medical records and statements from witnesses, which may improve your chances of success.

Contact an Experienced Columbus Workers Compensation Lawyer

If you have been injured on the job, filing a worker’s compensation claim is crucial to ensure you receive the necessary benefits and support. However, navigating the claims process alone can be daunting, especially if English is not your first language or your employer disputes your claim.

That’s where an experienced Columbus worker’s compensation lawyer comes in. They can help guide you through every step, from filing an accurate and complete claim to appealing a denied claim. With their expertise and support, you can maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.

So don’t hesitate to reach out for help – contact a Columbus worker’s compensation lawyer today at (833) 406-0060. Your health and financial well-being may depend on it.