Although there are regulations set to ensure the safety of workers at their workplaces, several workers suffer from injuries or illnesses that result from hazardous working conditions. The workers’ compensation claim allows victims to seek compensation for their damages after the work accident. However, filing a claim is complex, and people who lack legal expertise may be unable to navigate it correctly.
In such situations, it is best to consult a local workers comp attorney that helps them understand their state’s workers’ compensation laws and take the proper legal steps. Their guidance ensures that workers do not make mistakes that can harm their settlement.
Some mistakes are commonly made by victims of work-related accidents.
- They do not take prompt action.
Being involved in a work-related accident can be extremely distressing, and prompt legal action is necessary to recover your damages. There is a strict deadline,” statute of limitations,” set by every state after which the victim cannot file a claim for workers’ compensation. In Washington, the deadline to file a claim is one year from the date of the accident, and in the case of an occupational disease, two years from the date it was discovered.
- They do not report to their employer.
After an accident occurs, it is the responsibility of the employee to report the accident to the employer in writing regardless of whether they have suffered injuries. Many organizations have set policies the worker must follow to report the accident. Even if they did not suffer damages, reporting the incident can help the employer take more safety precautions to prevent another accident from occurring.
- They do not seek medical care.
The workers’ compensation claim depends heavily on the nature and extent of injuries the victim has incurred. They must seek medical care immediately after the accident, even if they do not experience pain. A medical evaluation can detect and diagnose every injury, including slowly developing injuries. If they do not seek medical attention, their claim may be reduced because insurance companies may blame the worsening of their injuries on their actions.
- They do not hire an attorney.
The presence of a qualified attorney can benefit the victims significantly. They provide them with legal advice after assessing their case in-depth to ensure that they take the proper steps. They ensure that their claim does not get dismissed or reduced by negotiating with insurance companies.
Choosing the right lawyer is essential for the favorable outcome of your case. They understand your stressful situation and dedicatedly work to provide you with the best legal support.
