What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation and How to File a Claim

According to the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 375,000 establishments reported workplace injuries and illnesses for employers with approximately 100 employees in high-risk industries in 2023.

Mitchell Law Corporation says that workplace accidents are some of the most common causes of injuries across the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ data show that the private sector reported approximately 3 million work-related, non-fatal injuries and illnesses. Work-related accidents must occur while an employee is working. This includes accidents that happen in an employer’s vehicle, on the job site, or anywhere else within the scope of your job. 

This article will teach you how to file a workers’ compensation claim and which injuries it covers. 

Common Types of Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation

Injuries in the workplace can happen anytime. Before applying for workers’ compensation, it is important to identify first who was liable or legally responsible for causing the fall accident in the workplace. This may include the employer, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or even a third-party contractor.

Numerous factors can contribute to workplace injuries. Lifting heavy things can cause back injury or muscle strain. Repetitive movement can result in carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. Machinery work can cause cuts and crush injuries or even burn injuries. Serious health problems may arise after being exposed to toxic substances. 

Injuries can manifest physically and psychologically, with the latter causing anxiety or emotional distress as a result of working conditions.

Workplace injuries lawyer Marc S. Wiesner says that you must familiarize yourself with the different types of injuries so you can recognize when to file a compensation claim. 

Understanding Occupational Diseases

Occupational diseases arise over time from prolonged exposure to harmful substances or from working in a stressful work environment. 

You could potentially develop a respiratory problem caused by inhaling toxic fumes or repetitive strain injury from performing the same type of task on a daily basis.

Document your symptoms if you think an illness is work-related and consult your doctor. Study the nature of the occupational disease you are claiming and its cause so you can have a stronger workers’ compensation claim for support and benefits.

The Workers’ Compensation Claims Process

To initiate the claims process, you need to immediately report your injury or disease to your employer. 

Complete the forms and return them on time once your employer hands them to you. 

The insurance company will conduct an investigation and determine whether or not they will accept the claim. 

Once your claim is approved, you will start receiving benefits. In case of a denial, you have the right to appeal.

Key Documentation Needed for Your Claim

Gather proper documentation after you report your injury and submit your applications.

Organize your medical records for your injury and treatment, including doctor’s notes, diagnostic tests, and prescriptions.

Gather correspondence from your employer about the accident, along with statements from any witness. 

Keep track of lost wages using pay stubs or tax documents. These documents will help support your compensation claim. 

What to Do If Your Claim is Denied

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you will receive a denial letter.

Carefully read the denial letter to identify the reasons behind the denial. Proceed to obtain any relevant documents that may support your case, including medical records and witness statements.

Stay updated with the state and federal laws and file an appeal with the workers’ compensation board in your state.

Consult with a workplace accident lawyer who could assist you throughout the appeals process and help strengthen your chances of winning that appeal.

Staying informed about the types of injuries covered by workers’ compensation and knowing how to properly file a claim can significantly help you prepare for the legal process involving workers’ compensation.