Workers’ Compensation Claim Checklist

Workers’ Compensation Claim Checklist

If you are hurt in a workplace accident, you have 30 days from the date of the injury to file a workers’ compensation claim or run the risk of losing your benefits. This can be a complex process, however, and it will take a lot of steps for your claim to be approved.

 

What to Do

Here are the things you will need to do to obtain workers compensation.

  • After you file your report, make sure you get a copy of it from your employer. This will be extremely important should any sort of dispute arise over your claim because it will provide the evidence you need to not only show the date of the accident, but also the date it was reported.
  • The employer will responsible for submitting the paperwork regarding the accident to the Louisiana Office of Workers Compensation (LOWC). This will basically open the claim.
  • You will need to see a doctor as soon as possible. It is very important to realize that you will be able to choose your own doctor, but your employer may ask you to go to another physician to get a second opinion regarding your injury. If there is some sort of disagreement between the two doctors as to whether or not your injury was work related, the LOWC will make the final determination.
  • If your employer agrees with your claim, you should soon begin receiving benefits that will replace a portion of your lost wages due to being unable to work.
  • If the employer denies the claim, however, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible so you can have a clear understanding of all your rights, and also a clear picture of all your legal options.

How an Attorney Can Help

Once you receive the medical help you need, you might want to consider talking to an attorney, whether or not there’s a dispute with your claim. Again, the workers’ compensation process can be complex and difficult — especially if you haven’t gone through it before. At Irpino, Avin & Hawkins Law Firm, we will make sure your claim is not only turned in on time, but that it is accurate as well. Even if you make a minor mistake when filing your report, that could lead to a denied claim.

If there is a dispute, we can work closely with you to make sure all your current medical expenses are accurately calculated as well as any future expenses you may incur because of the accident. We will appeal any denial and protect your rights at all times. We will also be ready to form the strongest case possible if your dispute should wind up in court.

Get in touch with Irpino, Avin & Hawkins Law Firm today if you either need help with your workers’ compensation claim or if you are considering taking legal action if that claim has been denied. Contact us online or give us a call 1-800-7500-LAW to learn more.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *