A job injury can be traumatic and overwhelming. If you are seriously hurt in Richmond, it could mean spending weeks or even months away from the workplace, which can only add to the financial stress. Thankfully, that’s exactly where the workers’ compensation system can help. Because workers’ compensation is not based on the fault of your employer, you don’t need to prove anything to recover the benefits. Talk to a Richmond workers’ comp lawyer to know what you can possibly do to get the best outcome, and in this post, we are sharing the mistakes you must avoid.
1 Signing A Release
The insurance company will try to get you to sign a general release. If you do that, the claims adjuster will get access to your medical records and history, and the details could be used against you. When you are asked to do something like this, let your lawyer do the talking.
2 Trusting The Insurance Adjuster
Claims adjusters are known to be extremely friendly with injured workers, which doesn’t mean that they are trustworthy. Remember that these professionals are working for the workers’ compensation carrier and do not care whether you get a fair settlement. Things you say could become hurdles in getting the benefits. In short, don’t believe when the insurance company promises to take care of you.
3 Not Looking For A Job When Not Under An Award
If you are not under an Award and the doctor says you can work to some extent, you should start looking for jobs. In some cases, employers have roles for such injured workers who cannot do their regular jobs, but if that’s not an option for you, it is a must to search the job-hunting process. If you think you are injured and cannot work, but your doctor says otherwise, you must still apply for new roles.
4 Missing Vocational Rehabilitation Meetings
If you have been assigned to vocational rehabilitation, make sure that you attend all the meetings. Cooperating with the counselor is crucial; you must follow everything they say. The vocational counselor has the power to speak to the claims adjuster that you have been skipping meetings, which could termination of benefits.
Your workers’ compensation lawyer will explain all other pertinent aspects of your case in detail when you meet them in person. Fortunately, lawyers don’t charge an upfront fee for such claims, and you can expect to get assistance with paperwork too.
