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4 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

On Behalf of | Workers' Compensation

When you’re injured on the job in the performance of your duties, you’re eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation helps cover the cost of your medical treatments and provides you with a portion of your regular income while you recover. But to get access to those benefits, you’ll need to file a workers’ compensation claim in Chicago. Unfortunately, many injured Chicago workers end up making mistakes when filing their claims that cost them the compensation and financial assistance they deserve. Here are some of the most common mistakes you’ll want to avoid.

1. Not Seeking Medical Attention

If you’re injured on the job, your employer cannot bar you from seeking medical attention, and it’s important that you go as soon as possible. Let your supervisor know that you’re injured and need to see a doctor immediately. They may recommend you to a specific urgent care facility. Once you receive that recommendation, go to the doctor immediately. Don’t wait until the end of the day or the next week. The insurance company may use the fact that you didn’t seek immediate medical treatment as an excuse to dismiss or deny your claim, as it implies that you weren’t really injured.

2. Not Writing Down What Happened

Writing down the events that led to the injury can further support the strength of your workers’ compensation claim. Forgetting or waiting until your memory of the incident fades can hurt your claim and make it harder for you to get the compensation you deserve. Use this as your opportunity to establish a clear chain of events. Compile statements from your coworkers who witnessed the incident and write down as much of what happened leading up to the accident, the accident itself, and what happened immediately following your injury.

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3. Not Filling Out Paperwork

Insurance companies want to see documentation about the injury when you file a claim. If you don’t report your injury to your employer and fill out the necessary paperwork to initiate your claim, you risk losing out on compensation. Let your employer know that you’re hurt and need to file a workers’ compensation claim as soon after the injury as you can. You’ll have 30 days from the injury to fill out the necessary paperwork. If your employer refuses to give you the paperwork, consult with your attorney and report your employer to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.

4. Not Contesting Claim Denials

If your employer’s insurance provider denies your claim, it may be tempting to accept the denial. You don’t have to. With proper legal assistance, you may be able to get the insurance company to reevaluate your claim so you can get the compensation you need to make ends meet while you recover.

Avoid These Mistakes Whenever Possible

Filing a workers’ compensation claim with your employer can be a time-consuming and confusing process. If you’re worried about making mistakes with the claim or have recently been denied compensation for your injuries, don’t feel like you have to navigate the future alone. At Anesi Ozmon, LTD. Our dedicated attorneys understand how stressful and difficult filing a workers’ compensation claim can be and want to help you get the compensation you so rightly deserve. Schedule a free consultation or call 312-997-5784 to speak with a member of our team.