.jpg)
Every year, thousands of workers across the country are injured while performing their job duties. For the majority of full-time employees in Alabama, their jobs are their livelihood. It’s understandable that an injured employee would be worried when he or she suffers an injury and can no longer work. Workers’ compensation was established, in part, so that injured employees can have an income and maintain medical coverage in these circumstances. So, when can an injured worker file a workers’ compensation claim?
Basically, an employee can file a claim as soon as he or she suffers an injury on the job or develops a work-related illness. In fact, a delay in filing for workers’ compensation benefits could potentially lead to a denial of the claim. A significant delay between the time an injury occurs until the time the injured worker files a claim can signal a red flag to workers’ compensation insurance companies, resulting in a claim rejection.
To begin the workers’ compensation process, the employee must first notify his or her employer of the work-related illness or injury, then file a formal claim. The employer notification should include details such as the time, date and how the injury happened, as well as the place the injury occurred. If an injury was the result of a specific workplace accident, it can be helpful to include a list of witnesses.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim is a fairly common practice after a workplace accident. However, the process can be confusing. Injured workers in Alabama should learn their options and rights pertaining to workers’ compensation. A seasoned attorney can provide answers and help workers obtain the benefits they deserve.
Comments