Common Mistakes After a Workplace Injury - Avoid these Mistakes After a Work Injury

Many injured workers make common mistakes after a workplace injury that can cost them time, money, and health. Those who have become injured at work have rights, but they also much make sure that they are doing the right thing following the injury. There is a lot of confusion surrounding what to do after an injury at work. In Iowa, workers' compensation laws are in place to help protect the employee, not the employer. The employer is required by law to have workers' comp insurance in place in the majority of cases. However, things can always go awry even if the person is entitled to compensation. 

Tom Fowler Law is a law firm in Des Moines that works with those injured on the job. They team is knowledgeable about all things injury and worker's compensation. They understand that these situations might be difficult and confusing, and they don't always know what to do following injuries. Anyone who has been injured at work should do their best to avoid making the following mistakes.

Not Reporting the Injury to the Employer - Waiting too Long to Notify

It's important to always report any accident to the employer as soon as possible. It's best to do this immediately after the accident. However, the law states that the injured person must notify the employer within 90 days. 

Waiting too long is one of the common mistakes people make, and it could cause denial of benefits or a disputed workers' comp claim.

Here's a common scenario: A worker suffered an injury at work, like a sprain. They seek medical attention to get it checked out, but they do not report anything to their employer. Two years later, the worker begins to have pain in the area again. However, since they did not report an injury by the deadline, there might not be anything they can do to receive future medical treatment. 

Not Taking the Time to Go to the Doctor or Getting Medical Treatment for Every Symptom

It's also possible that the injured person will fail to go to the doctor. This is an error that can affect both their recovery and the credibility of their claim. If there is not a record of medical treatment, it's possible that insurance companies on the case will argue that the worker couldn't have been hurt that badly if they didn't get medical attention. This means that the victim of the injury may not be able to file anything, and if they do, the settlement could be much lower.

Ignoring Medical Advice Following an Injury - Don't Fail to Continue Treatment

Failure to follow a doctor's instructions can also affect any type of workers' compensation benefits. If a doctor gives specific instructions to do something, like physical therapy, and the person doesn't do that, it could affect any claim. The attorney for the insurance company could argue that the injury wasn't severe because the injured person never followed up.

Not Keeping a Record of Everything for a Claim - Document Everything

An attorney will need evidence to fight for their client, and if there are no records, it will be more difficult to take legal action. Many legal experts recommend keeping a personal injury journal where the victim would log their symptoms, any missed workdays, witness statements, a record of medical bills, and even the mileage or travel costs associated with the injury. 

Giving Statements About the Workplace Injury Without a Lawyer 

It's likely that an insurance company or other person will contact the injured person. One of the common worker's comp mistakes is giving a statement without legal representation. Giving the wrong answer to an insurer or other person about a work-related injury can definitely affect the outcome of the case. This is why working with an attorney sooner, rather than later, is always a good idea. They can consult about common mistakes after a car accident as well.

The Worker Only Relies on the Workers' Compensation Insurance

Many people don't realize that they could lose valuable compensation if they are only relying on the employer's insurance. Insurance companies will have a lawyer to represent them, and those lawyers will try to offer the lowest amount possible. Legally, however, the injured party could get more compensation. For more information, the best workers comp lawyers in Des Moines may be able to help.

Posting About the Accident on Social Media

Another mistake that is easy to make is posting about the accident on social media. This can be used as documentation against the victim. Even if a photo is posted or the case is mentioned, it could create a challenge for the person who was injured. It's best to keep everything about the case off social media accounts. It's also best to limit who is spoken to about the incident. 

Accepting a Settlement Too Early Without Legal Representation

One of the biggest workers' comp mistakes is accepting a settlement too early. There is no restriction on when or how an insurance company can offer a settlement, and often, they offer the lowest possible amount. So, victims of these incidents need to be careful. If approached, it's best to seek help from a personal injury lawyer who can advise on common mistakes after a slip and fall.

Not Consulting a Personal Injury Lawyer

Workers' comp lawyers and personal injury lawyers can help in these cases and help injured people get the compensation they deserve. Though the injured person doesn't have a duty to consult with a legal professional, it can greatly affect the case. Most lawyers in this type of practice offer a free consultation, so there is no reason not to wait when an injury occurs.

Contact Tom Fowler Law for a Free Consultation

Tom Fowler Law is a Des Moines-based law firm that works with people in this situation. They can speak with those who have been hurt at work and determine if they qualify for a case. They will help alleviate the stress, make sure to document everything, and work with their clients to get the best possible outcome. 

Call today to make an appointment with Tom Fowler Law, or make an appointment online.