Getting injured at work can be a traumatic and painful experience. The financial burden and stress that come with being unable to work can pile up quickly. That’s why workers’ compensation exists. As an employee, you have the right to file for workers’ compensation, which will provide you with medical coverage and financial benefits to help with your recovery. However, many people make mistakes when filing for workers’ compensation that can result in denied claims or reduced benefits. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the five most common mistakes people make when filing for workers’ compensation in NJ, and how to avoid them.
Not Reporting the Injury on Time
One of the most common mistakes people make is not reporting their injury on time. In NJ, you have 90 days from the date of your injury to report it to your employer. If you don’t report it within this time frame, you could compromise your workers’ compensation claim. To avoid this, report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Don’t assume that your injury is minor, as it could worsen over time without proper treatment.
Failing to See a Doctor
After you report your injury, your employer will provide you with a list of approved doctors to seek medical attention from. Failing to see a doctor and get a proper diagnosis can be detrimental to your workers’ compensation claim. If you wait too long to seek medical attention, the insurance company may argue that your injury is not work-related, and you may not receive the benefits you are entitled to. Remember, seeing a physician is not only for your health, but also for the success of your claim.
Not Adhering to Medical Treatment
After you seek medical attention, your doctor will provide a treatment plan. It’s essential to follow this plan to the letter as it shows that you’re serious about your recovery. If you miss appointments or don’t cooperate with your healthcare team, it may reflect poorly on your claim. Failing to adhere to medical treatment can give the insurance company an excuse to reduce or even deny your benefits.
Trying to Go Back to Work Too Soon
When injured, it’s important not to rush back to work too soon, even if you feel better. Letting your body heal completely is the best way to ensure that your workers’ compensation claim is successful. Going back to work too soon can hurt your claim because it can suggest that your injury was not as severe as you were claiming. Speak with your doctor and follow the instructions provided by your employer and insurance company before returning to work.
Failing to Seek Legal Representation
Workers’ compensation claims can be complicated, especially when disputes arise. If you’re not careful, you may not get the benefits you deserve. That’s where a workers’ compensation attorney comes in. They can help guide you through the claims process and ensure that all documents are prepared and filed on time. Hiring a workers’ compensation attorney may increase your chances of receiving the maximum benefits you’re entitled to.
In conclusion, it’s essential to avoid these common mistakes when filing for workers’ compensation in NJ. Make sure you report your injury on time, seek medical attention promptly, and follow your treatment plan. It’s equally important not to rush back to work too soon and to seek legal representation when necessary. By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure that your claim is successful and you get the financial and medical benefits that you deserve.
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