Worker’s Compensation Tips

Worker’s compensation claims can be very difficult. Employers do anything they can to avoid paying comp claims. The Worker’s Compensation claim system can become complicated. If you are injured at work there are simple things you can do to help yourself and to make the claim process a little easier.

• First and foremost, if you sustain an injury at work, you MUST IMMEDIATELY report the injury to your employer. This will usually be your immediate supervisor. Probably, at this point, you will be best served by making notes for yourself and developing a timetable of events. You will be filling out an injury report. Ask for a copy of the injury report for your own records.

If an injury is not reported immediately, employers are more likely to deny the claim, so it is your best interest to let your employer know right away when you are injured.

• Compose a list of witnesses to the accident. If there are no witnesses the employer will try to deny the claim
• When filing a worker’s compensation claim be very clear regarding the details of the work accident or injury. Your employer will try to deny the claim for being vague and not specific enough.
• You must file your FROI (first report of injury) and appeal, if necessary, in a timely manner. If at any time during the process you are denied benefits, it would be best to consult an attorney regarding your rights and the appeal procedure.

Any questions please call Local 407 at 216-688-0833