Answering Three Basic Workers' Compensation Questions

When a person suffers extensive injuries as a result of a workplace accident, it is possible to accumulate large medical debts. To help protect workers from the financial consequences of these incidents, most businesses are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. However, if you are needing to file this type of insurance claim, you may benefit from having a few workers' compensation questions answered.

What Could Cause Your Workers' Compensation Claim To Be Rejected? 

Sadly, there are some instances where workers may find that their claim is denied. Often, this will stem from violating important safety policies and procedures. For example, if you are found that have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will likely find that your claim is not honored. Additionally, knowingly violating the company's safety or standard operating procedures may also lead to these claims being rejected by the insurance.

If you find that your claim is denied, you will need to hire an attorney to file an appeal. This appeal will usually be heard by the local regulatory board for workers' compensation. During this hearing, you will be allowed to present additional evidence or statements that can be used to refute the reason for the rejection. While it may be possible to do this without the guidance of an attorney, these professionals have the experience and training needed to help craft a convincing and effective appeal argument. As a result, their services may help you to increase the odds that the denied claim is overturned.

What If Your Injury Results In Disabilities?

Sadly, there is a chance that a worker may suffer either permanent or temporary disabilities as a result of their injuries. Luckily, temporary disabilities will often be covered by this type of policy, but if you have suffered permanent disabilities, it will likely be necessary to apply for Social Security Disability. However, the workers' compensation policy should still pay for the worker's treatment expenses that were a direct result of the accident.

How Will Your Return To Work Be Handled?

The process of returning to work after suffering one of these injuries can be rather tricky. While you may want to return as soon as possible so that you can resume earning your full wages, the enterprise will require approval from the attending physician before allowing you to return.

Fortunately, if your employer has a low-stress position that will not place you at a risk of further injury, the doctor may recommend you return to light duty. This will allow you to minimize your lost wages while also avoiding falling behind with what is happening at the company due to being away for an excessive period of time.