Understanding your entitlements as an employee is crucial in the event of a mishap or injury at the workplace. Workers’ compensation is intended to safeguard employees who sustain injuries while performing their duties, be it an abrupt accident or a disease resulting from prolonged exposure.
Nevertheless, determining the right time to initiate a workers comp claim can be challenging, given that the procedure slightly differs based on the situation.
In this article, we will highlight scenarios when to file a workers comp claim and offer some basic directions to assist you in managing the process.
Sudden Accidents
The typical circumstance that prompts a workers comp claim is an unexpected incident at work. This could involve a slip-and-fall, an encounter with industrial equipment, or a tumble from an elevated area. You must notify your employer immediately if you experience an accident while on duty. If the incident necessitates medical care or results in absence from work, you might qualify to initiate a workers comp claim.
Occupational Illnesses
Incidents aren’t the sole cause of workers comp claims. Employees exposed to harmful substances, radiation, or other perils might contract a disease linked to their occupation. Frequent occupational illnesses encompass lung conditions, skin issues, and hearing impairment. If you suspect your situation is tied to your workplace, discussing it with your employer and contemplating initiating a claim is advisable.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Certain occupations necessitate workers to repeatedly execute the same action, like typing or assembly line tasks. Over time, this repetitive activity could result in an injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or bursitis. If you incur a repetitive motion injury that hinders your ability to work, you might be eligible to initiate a workers comp claim.
Aggravated Pre-Existing Conditions
You may be eligible to file a claim if your job aggravates an existing health issue or injury. For example, if your work requires strenuous lifting and you suffer from a pre-existing back injury, there’s a chance your condition may deteriorate. In this scenario, you could lodge a workers comp claim to compensate for the additional medical costs and lost wages.
Misconduct by Your Employer
Occasionally, an employee might sustain injury due to an employer’s deliberate or careless actions. For instance, you could get hurt if your employer needs to upkeep equipment adequately or supply safety gear. In such a scenario, you might have the grounds to initiate a workers comp claim against your employer.
Death of a Loved One
In the unfortunate event of a loved one’s death resulting from a work-associated injury or ailment, you might qualify to initiate a workers comp claim in their name. These claims can be intricate, so consulting an attorney to safeguard your rights is crucial.
When to File a Workers Comp Claim – In Conclusion
Determining the right time when to file a workers comp claim can be challenging, but acting if you believe you qualify is crucial. By comprehending these scenarios, you’ll better understand when to lodge a claim and what to anticipate.
If you require further information about when to file a workers comp claim or wish to consult any regarding your circumstances, search for the best America’s small business specialist online. Your health and financial stability are too vital to overlook.
