Everyone’s heard of workers’ compensation and knows it’s supposed to be there to cover you when you get hurt in a work-related accident, but many people don’t understand exactly how it works, how to file a claim, or what injuries are covered under this important form of insurance. Learn about worker’s compensation claims, how to file a work related accident report, and what to do to ensure that you get compensated for your injury.

Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation is an important form of insurance that almost all employers are required to carry by law. It exists to cover you for any injuries you suffer in the course of employment. Whether you trip and fall walking to your desk, you develop a repetitive motion injury, or you’re in an accident while driving to a client’s location, workers’ comp may kick in to cover it. However, you need to take the right steps to ensure you get the proper coverage.

Reporting the Injury

The first thing you need to do is report your injury to your employer. You have a limited amount of time under the law to report this injury—usually 30 days—but the sooner you report it the better off you’ll be. Like any insurance company, workers’ comp companies look for reasons to deny claims, and the longer you wait to report, the less serious your injury looks to them.

So as soon as you become aware of an injury, report it. At this point, your employer should give you an incident report and claim form to fill out and return. If they don’t, contact the Oklahoma Workers Compensation Commission for help getting one.

What Should I Say?

Your report should contain all the important information about your accident, including where and when it happened, the nature of the injuries you suffered (in as much detail as you can muster), the circumstances of the accident, any other parties who were involved or witnessed the incident, and the details of any and all medical treatments you’ve received.

Be detailed and clear, but concise. Don’t exaggerate and don’t try to make it sound worse than it is. Honesty, detail, and clarity are key.

Following Up

When you’ve completed the form, return it to your employer. It’s then their duty to turn it over to the insurance company who will review your claim. During this time keep detailed records of your recovery.

Track your medical treatments, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, rehab services and the like. Keep records of how your injury is affecting your work and your life. Track your pay stubs and time sheets, and keep receipts for any out-of-pocket costs. You may need this information if your claim is denied, which does happen.

Getting Help

If your claim is denied after the insurance company reviews it, you may still have hope. Contact an Oklahoma workers compensation attorney for help challenging the denial and proving your claim. Many people have to go through the process of challenging a denial, and while it can be tough, you’re also not alone.

Parrish DeVaughn have recovered millions in settlements for injury cases, and we’re ready to help you as well. Give us a call today to discuss your case at no charge, and with no obligation.