Here’s what you should know about claiming workers’ comp
If you’ve been injured at work, it’s important that you take advantage of workers’ compensation benefits that could help you pay for medical bills and keep your head above water while you can’t work. Unfortunately, many compensable injuries go unreported by workers for fear that they’ll receive some sort of reprimand or simply a lack of knowledge about workers’ compensation laws. Here are a few quick notes about filing for workers’ comp to clear things up for local people that need help.
What type of injuries qualifies for workers’ comp?
There are specific types of injuries that qualify you for benefits. If you’ve been injured at work or developed an illness because of poor working conditions, you can file workers’ comp if you’re covered under your state’s workers’ compensation laws. Everything from carpal tunnel to brain injuries is compensable under workers’ comp laws.
Common Workers’ Comp Injuries
- Back Injuries
- Neck Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Sciatica
- Herniated Discs
- Bulging Discs
- Knee Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Joint Pain
- Construction Injuries
Will I get in trouble for filing?
That depends on your employer, but there’s no reason that you should be reprimanded for filing workers’ comp. Workers’ comp is insurance that helps your employer pay your medical bills. They’d be upset if you didn’t file workers’ comp and still expected them to pay for your bills. The system is there to help people who have been injured, not to punish the employer.
What if I waited too long?
It’s imperative that you notify your employer on time. In the State of Illinois, you must notify your employer within 45 days of the injury. Waiting too long could lead to a denial of benefits. While there may be legal action to bypass this rule, it’s a complicated process that can be avoided by adhering to workers’ comp rules.
My injury is minor – should I just ignore it?
Minor injuries can turn into major injuries, and if you never told your employer, you won’t be able to file your claim. Don’t let any injuries go unreported at work, if it turns into something worse, you’ll be able to receive the benefits you need.
