If you are filing a workers’ compensation claim, you may have already learned that there are many factors to keep track of. In fact, even making a small mistake could be detrimental to your claim.
Learn which mistakes to avoid when making a San Bernardino workers’ compensation claim and see why hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney is in your best interest.
Failing to Report an Injury ASAP
One of the mistakes employees most commonly make after a workplace injury in San Bernardino is failing to report the incident immediately. In California, injured employees must notify an employer as soon as possible about a work incident leading to injury. Any delay can complicate a workers’ compensation claim. Waiting too long may result in the claim’s denial or a reduction in benefits. Create an official record as quickly as possible.
Workers’ compensation claims require detailed and accurate information about an injury, how it occurred, and how it continues to impact the victim’s ability to work. Providing incomplete or inconsistent details can lead to delays and denials. All forms, reports, and statements must accurately reflect the incident to the best of the victim’s knowledge.
Failing to Seek Medical Attention
In many cases, employees hesitate to seek medical treatment—which is a mistake that could hurt a workers’ compensation claim in San Bernardino down the road. This is often because they believe the injury is so minor that it does not need attention or because they fear retaliation by their employer. Unfortunately, any delay in seeking medical attention could worsen the injury and the claim. A medical professional’s evaluation also provides evidence linking the injury to the workplace incident.
Once an injured worker begins treatment, they must follow the doctor’s recommendations. Failing to stick with prescribed treatment, including missing follow-up appointments, could be used as evidence to dispute the claim. Employers and insurance companies may argue that the injury is not that severe as a result.
Missing Important Legal Deadlines
The statute of limitations for filing these claims is generally one year from the date of the injury. However, there are additional deadlines for reporting the injury to an employer and submitting documentation. Missing just one deadline can jeopardize the San Bernardino workers’ comp claim.
The potential to miss significant deadlines is just one more reason to consider getting legal assistance. Lawyers understand the state’s deadlines and ensure that clients do not miss out on opportunities.
Do Not Make the Mistake of Not Hiring a San Bernardino Lawyer for Your Workers’ Comp Claim
Many injured workers assume that filing a workers’ comp claim is straightforward, but the process may be more complex than you think. Plus, any mistakes you make along the way can be costly. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Seeking assistance can help with the many mistakes to avoid when making a San Bernardino workers’ compensation claim. For example, you can avoid accepting an early settlement that does not fully cover your lost wages, medical expenses, and long-term treatment needs.
A San Bernardino workers’ compensation attorney helps you fight for your rights, especially in the fight against large companies that may try to minimize payouts. You can avoid these major mistakes and improve your chances of a successful claim with legal assistance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer.
(909) 885-1620