Work accidents can be highly disruptive when they result in serious injuries. Victims often must leave work, go to the hospital and deal with the pain and stress of the accident. In this flurry of activity, a workers’ compensation claim could be the last thing on your mind.
However, when the dust settles, seeking the benefits should be a top priority. And if you or someone you love has recently been in a work-related accident, it is crucial to avoid the following missteps, as they could jeopardize your benefits.
- Not reporting the incident to your employer: After an accident, you should notify your employer as soon as possible. Reporting your injuries immediately is critical in preventing a denial of your claim, similar incidents and establishing a time frame to calculate workers’ compensation benefits.
- Not applying for benefits: You may not think you are eligible for benefits, or you may be worried that your employer will fire you for pursuing them. However, there are laws in place that specify who is entitled to benefits and prohibit retaliation.
- Downplaying your injuries: People have different reasons for minimizing their injuries after a work accident. Some people feel embarrassed; others think that ignoring them might make them less serious. However, when you do not take your injuries seriously and seek medical attention, not only do you risk exacerbating your condition, but you can also negatively affect your workers’ compensation eligibility.
- Accepting a denied claim: Learning that an employer or insurance company denied your claim can be frustrating and disheartening. However, assuming you have no more options can be a costly mistake. Workers can dispute this decision and file an appeal seeking a more satisfactory outcome.
These mistakes can create costly delays and loss of benefits for injured Michigan workers. Thus, avoiding them can go a long way in pursuing the financial remedies you may deserve.