After you carefully document your workplace injury, continue documenting your workers’ compensation claim. Once you engage a workers’ compensation lawyer, he or she will take over managing your claim. You will, however, receive some documents and information directly that your lawyer does not have. Keep track of everything that happens to protect yourself. Then share the documents and information with your lawyer to help you case.
The Employer’s Response
After you first report your injury, pay attention to the employer’s response. For instance, note if the employer seems to dismiss your injury or if they immediately take action to prevent further injuries. Let them know if you need medical treatment right away. Your employer should generate a “First Report of Injury” form for the insurance company. You can and should ask for a copy of this form.
If your employer follows up with you after they receive the initial report, keep records of what the employer says. Again, you can make copies of any documents they send or give you. If you cannot make copies, take notes about what the documents said. Make notes during phone conversations. Update your employer about your planned return to work and provide medical notes for work days you miss.
Your employer should put you in touch with their insurance company. The insurance company processes claims of workplace injuries. Company representatives should review the First Report of Injury to assess your need for any immediate medical treatment. Also, track any correspondence you have with the company.
Seeking Medical Treatment While Your Claim Is Pending
When you seek medical treatment for your injury while a workers’ compensation claim is pending, documentation becomes very important so that you can get reimbursed for the treatment. You should save copies of all medical bills, records of treatment, doctor’s notes you receive, forms, and letters related to treatment. Further, track your mileage when visiting the doctor and write down a list of any parking fees you paid. If you receive vocational rehabilitation services or are doing job-search visits, track mileage and parking for those trips as well.
Working with a Lawyer
When you engage a lawyer to fight for workers’ compensation, all this documentation will come in handy. Give your lawyer all of the documents you have saved, including notes you took and logs of information. In particular, make sure your lawyer receives all of your medical bills and treatment information. He or she can use these documents to support both your claim for reimbursement of these expenses and your claim for continuing medical care.
Is your workers’ compensation going nowhere fast? Do you need a lawyer’s help? Joe Osterbauer, Esq. and the Osterbauer Law Firm stand up for injured Minnesota workers’ rights. Joe’s 27 years of workers’ compensation experience and his team’s speedy service combine to get clients the results they need. To schedule a free consultation, visit Osterbauer Law Firm online or call Joe’s office at (612) 334-3434.
