If you or someone you know has just been injured in a workplace accident, then this must be a confusing and emotional time. With workplace accidents come all sorts of uncertainty about the role that employers have to play, what is required of employees and whether or not you qualify for a variety of worker’s compensation benefits available for this occasion. There is definitely a lot to learn about and consider, but knowing the basics at the onset of these developments can help protect you, your job and ensure you are treated with the respect you deserve. Knowing your workplace rights is crucial; below are the three most important ones you have when dealing with a workplace accident.
You Have the Right to a Workers’ Compensation Case
Unfortunately, all too many managers, supervisors and companies will immediately begin meddling in the affairs of the employee following a workplace accident. In some cases, this is under the umbrella of legitimate concern; in others, it is to reduce liability on their part. Workers’ compensation in these circumstances is virtually guaranteed when all of the proper steps are followed, which means coverage for your medical bills, your lost pay and even iron-clad arrangements that the employer must follow the doctor’s orders. Your employer, for instance, must supply you with a workers’ compensation doctors list that you can choose from to evaluate your injuries – once the doctor weighs in on the matter, the employer must abide by their word.
You Have the Right to Heal Fully
In the wake of a workplace injury or accident, the most important thing is to recover to your fullest. While the first instinct of many is to get back to work as soon as possible, you have the law on your side when it comes to being compensated for lost time. You also need to recover fully so that your working abilities are not hampered permanently. If you have been injured at work, then know that your employer cannot nor should pressure you into returning to work ahead of schedule. Your approved doctor will determine when it is best for you to return to work. Some companies wish to intimidate their employees to return early so that they will not have to pay the full extent of the workers’ compensation claim. Do not let your employer run over you – when situations like these arise, it is always a good idea to have a personal injury lawyer such as www.bohnlaw.com on hand to deal with any issues.
You Have the Right to Appeal
In some cases, your workers’ compensation claim can be denied on the first try. You must understand that your fight does not end here! By enlisting the services of a qualified personal injury lawyer to help with the appeals process, you will most certainly have a smoother time being accepted than on your first try. It is not uncommon for workers’ compensation claims to be denied on the first attempt, so do not fret. Too many workers do not know about this right and simply give up if they are denied: do not be a statistic.
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