Do’s and Don’ts of an injury at work

Written by our workers’ compensation lawyers in Virginia Beach

In Virginia, an injured worker is allowed to handle their own case. However, the process is complex and you may be fighting against insurance lawyers. If you are not up to date on all the ins and outs of workers’ compensation, you could lose the benefits you and your family need.

For nearly 15 years, the workers’ compensation lawyers at KRS Law have helped injured workers in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and all of Hampton Roads receive their workers’ compensation benefits.

A workplace injury is unfortunate. However, if one should happen you need to know at the outset how to help your chances of receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Following are some Do’s and Don’ts for a workplace injury from KRS Law:

DO’s

• DO report every accident to your supervisor, and be sure to explain to your doctors in detail how you were injured.
• DO call for help if necessary, and insist on immediate medical care.
• DO verify any equipment problems, unsafe areas, or other causes of your workplace injury and be sure to document the condition.
• DO identify witnesses who saw the accident (names, addresses and phone numbers). If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, your case may depend on witnesses who can validate your claims.
• DO fill out a written report which should include your name, address, time and place of the accident and your injuries. Be sure to describe what caused the accident.
• DO understand that the claims agent works on behalf of your company and its insurance company, not for you.
• DO remember you have the right to make a claim and hire a workers’ compensation lawyer. That is how you protect your rights, and the law prohibits retaliatory action by your company.

DON’Ts

• DON’T wait too long to file a workers’ compensation claim. There is a two year statute of limitations from the date of the work injury in Virginia to file your claim for benefits, as well as a number of other time limitations.
• DON’T sign a medical release allowing the insurance company to obtain your personal health records. They are NOT entitled to one, and they will try to use the records against you.
• DON’T give a signed or recorded statement to a claims agent. It can hurt your case and cost you your benefits.
• DON’T be talked into not reporting the accident. Some employers may pressure injured workers to pay for medical bills under their health insurance. Make sure that workers’ compensation pays for the bills they owe.
• DON’T settle your case unless you consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss your rights and whether the settlement offer is fair or unfair. He or she can discuss what is best for you and explain the pros and cons of hiring a lawyer.

If you are searching for experienced workers’ compensation lawyers with proven results, please call us at (757) 432-2500 or send us an inquiry using our online form below.

KRS Law has workers’ compensation lawyers serving Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and all of Hampton Roads.