Many people get frustrated when they try to apply for workmen’s compensation insurance in Minnesota. For most claims, every detail is crucial, and making mistakes could result in not getting the money the claimant needs.
We’ve compiled four tips to help you understand the process and avoid denial. Knowing what to do will improve your chances of getting your much-needed claim approved.
- Apply as Early as Possible
Data shows that filing early will improve your chances for success. Late claims tend to raise some questions about the validity and severity of the injury. Those looking into the claim may ask, why wait a year to file? While there is a two-year statute of limitations, you should not wait until the last moment to file.
By filing early, you can make adjustments and seek out everything needed to verify your claim. You’ll be able to gather documentation and respond if more information is necessary.
While we recommend filing early, we don’t recommend doing so hastily. Make sure every bit of detail in the report is accurate. You don’t want to get a denial because you missed information or inputted an error.
Another benefit of filing early is that you’ll be able to seek legal help if an issue arises. For example, if your employer tries to stop you from filing for workman’s compensation insurance in Minnesota, we can help. You can seek out lawyers from Osterbauer Law Firm, and we can fight for your compensation.
- Gather Evidence
Evidence is necessary to avoid contests during the claim. By having witnesses create signed statements, you can assure that all information is truthful. Your claim becomes solid when several witnesses corroborate. It’s also a way for you to avoid any actions that may try to contest your claim.
For example, your employer or the insurance company may try to separate their involvement in the situation. They may claim that the injury occurred outside of work. If they contest your right to claim, the statements will prove them wrong.
Like anything else, gathering evidence as early as possible will help your case. Over time, memories can fade, and recollections of events may become inaccurate. You also risk the scene getting tampered with if you don’t have any photo or video evidence to show.
Get reports from any law enforcement that arrived at the scene to strengthen your case further. They will also gather information and eyewitness statements that will be useful for your case.
- Seek Out Approved Medical Treatment
You should seek out medical treatment as soon as possible. Getting it fast can be the difference between a minor injury and a life-changing one. One thing you should know is that not all doctors qualify for the worker’s compensation claim. You’ll need to receive treatment from a doctor that worker’s compensation approves.
If you’ve already sought out treatment, then you shouldn’t worry. You can still go to the approved doctor afterward. You can bring copies of medical records and have that doctor verify the severity of your injuries. They’ll also be able to ascertain the cost of treatment, so you get the compensation you need.
If you’re worried that they may not be able to gauge your injury, you’re always welcome to seek out other opinions. The workers’ compensation will consider the assessments from others if they show a more critical condition. If there is an issue, you can consult with a lawyer so they can fight for a claim that fits your injury.
The compensation you get from medical treatment should include every cost. It must cover everything involved from the injury. In the case of long-term injuries, the compensation will be even greater because of the drastic change in your lifestyle.
Be careful about signing documentation that may give anyone rights to gather information. Your medical costs are directly tied to how much compensation you’ll get. You might sign a document that could give them rights to alter the information you have. If you’re unsure, consult with your lawyer, and they can examine the fine print for you.
- You Can Appeal
The majority of claims get a denial, but it doesn’t end there. The insurer has to state the reason for the rejection. Most of these happen because of missing information. In some cases, the insurance agency or the employer might try to file against the eligibility of the claim.
State law allows workers to appeal a denied claim. However, when this happens, you should immediately seek out a workers’ compensation attorney. They know how to handle these situations and can help you prepare, so you’ll have a better chance of approval following the appeal.
If you don’t seek out help, you could be at risk. A denied claim means you’ll be responsible for paying your medical bills, no matter how much they cost. You may also lose more than that if your injury stops you from working in the same capacity. You lose your ability to earn, and your employer will not have to pay you anything.
The Osterbauer Law Firm Can Help With Workmen Compensation Insurance in Minnesota
We recommend seeking out a workers’ compensation lawyer as early as possible. Many unpredictable things can happen, and you never know who might try to contest your claim. While the workman’s comp is non-fault, it will not stop opposing parties from trying to deny you the money you need. With a lawyer, you have an expert who’ll look into any potential issues and will handle them as they arise.
Osterbauer Law Firm has helped many workers get the rightful compensation they deserve. If you believe that your case goes beyond what workers’ compensation can do for you, you may consult us for a potential personal injury case. As one of the most trusted teams in the state, we’ve handled tens of thousands of cases in almost three decades. Our track record is why many workers trust us for any needs they may have regarding workman compensation insurance in Minnesota.
