What Can I Expect from the Workers’ Compensation Claim Process?

If you are not familiar with the workers’ compensation claim process, you may have many questions about what you can expect as your claim progresses. The prospect of filing and pursuing a claim can be a daunting process.

A workers’ compensation settlement can be used to cover a variety of expenses. These expenses can include the claimant’s medical bills, compensation for the wages he or she missed due to taking time off from work to recovery, and the vocational training or job placement assistance that he or she needs upon returning to work. Every claimant does not necessarily receive compensation for these three needs. The type of compensation that you receive and the amount depend largely on the financial needs that you present to the court in your workers’ compensation claim. Individuals who demonstrate a greater amount of financial hardship often receive larger settlements than those who demonstrate smaller levels of need.

Expect to Tell the Same Story Over and Over Again

When you are injured on the job, you need to tell your supervisor about the accident and how it caused you to get hurt. Then, when you seek medical care, you will need to explain your accident and injury to the doctor. When you start working on your claim with an attorney, you will have to tell your story yet again, then again to the workers’ compensation board. You need to be consistent with the details of your accident recollection every time you discuss it – omitting or changing details, even by accident, can jeopardize your claim. Keep a copy of your written accident report to refer to before meeting with any party during the course of the claim process.

Expect to Take an Active Role in your Recovery

While your claim is pending, you need to take steps toward your recovery. This means attending all doctor’s appointments and physical therapy sessions. If you do not demonstrate that you are taking initiative to recover from your accident, you can jeopardize your claim.

In short, you need to demonstrate that you need the money you are seeking. If you are not taking your recovery seriously by following your doctor’s orders, why should you get money to pay for your appointments and rehabilitation? You cannot just sit on the couch and wait for your compensation check to arrive – this is not how workers’ compensation works. Expect to be your own advocate during this process.

Workers’ Compensation Law Firm

Contact The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. at (847) 395-2200 today to learn more about how your unique circumstances will come into play with your workers’ compensation claim during your free legal evaluation with attorney Bob Edens.  He can explain the workers’ compensation claim process and negotiate with your employer’s workers’ compensation provider on your behalf to ensure that you receive an appropriate settlement amount for your needs. Your recovery and compensation is important to us. Call our firm today to begin with a free initial consultation.