Any type of injury can be devastating, but an on-the-job injury can be even worse because it puts one’s livelihood at risk. Dealing with pain, mounting bills, and time away from work can be difficult, and many just want to put the accident in the past so they proceed without assessing their injuries. Worker’s comp is intended to make the worker whole, but getting a claim approved can be intimidating for those doing it for the first time. An attorney who focuses on Work Injury Law in Glendale AZ can help a worker get full compensation for their injuries while avoiding the below mistakes.
Failing to Report the Injury
One must report their injury to the employer as quickly as possible to avoid negative effects on a possible claim. Workers should report any on-the-job injury even if it seems minor. One should not assume that their injury isn’t severe enough to be eligible for compensation because injuries sometimes worsen over the following days or weeks.
Not Seeing the Right Doctor
If an injury happens on the job, the employer is legally allowed to choose the physician. To be eligible for worker’s comp benefits, the worker must submit to an examination performed by the company’s doctor. If the employer does not pick a physician, the worker can do so, but the chosen doctor must be qualified to diagnose the injury. For instance, one cannot be required to see an OBGYN if they suffer from a broken arm.
Not Getting an Additional Opinion
Although current Work Injury Law in Glendale AZ requires a worker to see the company’s doctor, they also allow workers to seek second opinions. If one disagrees with the company doctor’s diagnosis, they can seek confirmation elsewhere. The employer has the right to choose the doctor who provides the follow-up opinion and, in some instances, these are important in gaining fair compensation.
The worker’s compensation and personal injury attorneys at the Garrison Law Firm help injured employees get the benefits they need to progress after a workplace injury. The firm’s lawyers fight aggressively on victims’ and families’ behalf. If one is denied worker’s comp benefits or if they need to file a claim, they should call a worker’s compensation attorney for help and advice.
