Why It Pays To Pay Attention To Your Workers' Compensation Documents

Often, hurt workers are able to recover from an injury or occupational illness and quickly return to their usual jobs in a few weeks. If you expect that to be the case for you, it's all too easy to minimize the entire experience.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult for hurt workers to predict the course of their recovery and what might happen to their workers' comp claim. That's why it's so important for workers to prioritize the documents, correspondence, forms, and notes related to their claim. That way, if things don't go as expected, they have the information they need to get the claim approved. Read on so that you'll know what documentation to expect after you are hurt at work.

Medical Treatment Documentation

Just because the workers' comp insurance carrier is paying your medical bills is no sign you should not keep up with the receipts, billing statements, and more. You must seek medical care and you should keep every piece of paper those visits produce in a file folder. Don't forget about prescriptions, diagnostic tests, and medical goods like crutches.

The Accident Claim Form

This paper should be filed with the carrier as soon as possible after the accident or you discover an illness. You may fill it out or your supervisor may do so. Don't sign a form that is not filled out, has blank lines, or contains any wrong or questionable information. Keep a copy of the form for your files and make sure the form is filed with the correct insurance carrier.

More Incident Information

In many cases, the workers' comp insurer will request more information from you. More and more, carriers use email to correspond with claimants, so set up a dedicated folder so you can access information when needed.

While the workers' comp insurer may not call you, you might need to call them on occasion. When you do, keep notes as you speak to them and be sure to include details about the date and time, who you spoke with, and what was discussed.

Employer Information

Your employer may provide you with information about your job, your work status, the claim, and more. Keep all documents from your employer. Having copies of all work-related documents will keep you on top of things.

Keeping a Journal

Workers' compensation lawyers often recommend that hurt workers keep a pain journal. This can help you keep up with doctor's visits and your rehabilitative progress. It can also help bolster your case if your claim is questioned.

To find out more about important documents that go along with a workers' comp claim or for any problem with your claim, look into workers compensation attorney services.