Three Signs You May Be Able To File A Workers' Compensation Claim

In the case of an injury related to or occurring at your job, it's only fair that you receive compensation for your treatments and lost time. Workers' compensation claims often cover only medical expenses and a portion of the income you'd expected to earn during the time you were unable to work due to an injury, but it's still better than nothing. If you're wondering whether you can receive this compensation, use these three signs to help you determine whether your case fits the profile for a workers' compensation claim. Here are three signs that this type of claim is right for you.

1. You were injured on the job

Whether your injury occurred as a direct result of your work, such as a back injury from heavy lifting, or whether it was just an accident like slipping on a workplace floor, it still counts as being injured on the job. You were working, and something that you did in the course of that work caused you to be injured. As long as you weren't engaging in reckless behavior such as horseplay, the injury should be considered as a result of you doing your work. In addition, all types of injuries are eligible, whether they're violent injuries such as having heavy products dropped on your head, or more insidious damage like repetitive motion strain on your wrists.

2. You have medical records to prove the costs

Your workers' compensation claim will aim to cover your medical costs, so you'll need to have an authorized and respected medical authority record the extent of the injury, the recommended treatments, and the cost of those treatments so the claim can reach a settlement.

3. Your employer has the correct insurance

Your employer is probably required to carry workers' compensation insurance (depending on their size, many businesses are required to do this) for this very reason, but if they don't, you can still get compensation. To do this in the absence of insurance you may need to sue for personal injury, which is a longer and more involved process. However, if your employer does have insurance, you can opt for a workers' compensation insurance claim.

These three signs outline the situations in which a workers' compensation claim can be expected to fit the bill. Be sure to consult your lawyer if your case has any surprising twists, or if you need help negotiating your settlement with nuance and finesse.

Contact a professional like J W Chalkley III PA for more details.

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