Posted in Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured at work, you want to receive maximum compensation in a workers compensation claim. However, you might unknowingly make mistakes that hurt your case. Here are some common workers compensation claim mistakes to avoid.
- Failing to report the accident. If you suffered an injury in a work accident, it is your responsibility to inform your employer promptly. In Maryland, you only have 10 days to report a work injury. If you don’t report your injury within that time frame, you may lose your right to benefits.
- Not seeing the doctor your employer selects. If you want to apply for workers compensation, you are required to see the doctor your employer chooses. He or she will diagnose your injury and recommend the appropriate treatment. If you refuse to see the doctor your employer selects, it can hurt your right to compensation. However, if you are not satisfied with the doctor’s assessment, you can ask your employer permission to see a different doctor.
- Being dishonest about your injury. When discussing your injury with a doctor, it is important to be completely truthful. Some workers make the mistake of exaggerating their injuries to obtain more compensation. However, your doctor can easily find out if you’re not being honest about your injury and inform your employer. To avoid losing your right to benefits, avoid providing false information.
- Handling your claim without a lawyer. If your workers compensation case is fairly simple, you might be able to handle it on your own. However, there are certain situations that call for the help of a Maryland workers compensation lawyer. For example, if your employer has denied your initial claim or is retaliating against you, contact a reputable lawyer immediately.
- Not following your doctor’s advice. After your doctor diagnoses your injury, he or she will suggest a treatment plan. It is important to follow your doctor’s treatment plan all the way through. If you skip doctor’s appointments or discontinue your treatment prematurely, your benefits may get discontinued.
- Refusing work. Workers compensation benefits aren’t intended to last forever. Once your doctor clears you to return to work, you should attempt to go back. Your employer may give you lighter duties until you fully recover. If you refuse to report to work, your benefits can end.
