A work injury can happen for a multitude of reasons such as hazardous working conditions, improperly maintained equipment or work environment, lack of proper training, or weak management, amongst other issues. With that being said, Workers’ Compensation in Georgia is there to help take care of people who are injured on the job and will compensate the worker for lost wages and permanent disabilities. If you are injured while on the job and require a workers’ compensation claim to get started, here are some common mistakes to avoid afterwards to maintain a smooth path to a successful claim.
You Forgot to Report It
When injured on the job, report it to your direct supervisor immediately. Any accident or injury needs to be reported immediately, at least within 30 days, as required by Georgia Law. If a report is not made within that time frame, they have grounds to deny you all benefits. A lot of times, a worker does not want to “make a big fuss” or bring attention to themselves, but not acting on the situation can prevent you from getting the help and benefits from Workers’ Compensation you need if you are injured while on the job.
You Withheld or Lied About Medical History
Pay attention to and remember what you are saying. Accuracy is key when reporting your medical history and communicating all relevant information, such as previous accidents, injuries, or illnesses, when making your claim. The initial work injury is the focus and most important, but take the utmost care when filling out the patient information form to make sure everything is accurate. This is the opportunity to provide a detailed work injury history. The last thing that is needed is for the medical evidence to become doubtful and the claim is denied.
Poor Communication with Your Doctor
Informing your doctor about how your injury is affecting your work performance and life outside is absolutely necessary, and is required for a claim. The fear of angering your employer or losing your job is logical, but if you are feeling pain or discomfort while working, then you must tell your doctor. After informing your doctor, follow their advice. It is crucial for not just your health, but your claim as well.
You Postponed Medical Treatment
Do not delay going to a physician immediately. Not just that, but keeping your appointments and following your doctor’s orders to a tee is a must. If medical assistance is delayed or not seeked out, your claim could be affected or worse, denied.
You Waited Too Long to Consult an Attorney
Workers’ Compensation claims are complex. A knowledge of Georgia laws is paramount or hiring a good, experienced attorney is needed. Do not hire someone on the basis of promise to receive a large sum of money; no lawyer can foresee the future or guarantee an amount, but a good lawyer will help you through the process of a workers’ compensation claim and will try to get the best end result for you. If you do not hire an attorney, it can ruin your case beyond repair. A good workers’ compensation attorney will do what it takes to help and advise you to make sure the proper decisions are made.
Do not delay a course of action. If an injury occurs at work, act straight away. If you are in a situation such as this and are in need of help, contact us at Poirier Law Firm. We are committed to helping people get the best end results they deserve.