The last thing anyone wants is to get injured while at work. You are already sacrificing your time and energy to your career, but it is devastating to have to sacrifice your health for the sake of your job. If you do get a work-related injury or illness, you may be eligible to receive a workers’ compensation settlement. This will provide you with financial compensation to help you make ends meet while recovering from your injury and illness. During this process, it is essential to try to maximize your settlement to get you the most amount of money possible. So how do you get the most out of your workers’ compensation settlement?
REPORT YOUR INJURY ASAP
The first step to getting the most out of your workers’ compensation settlement is to report your workplace injury as soon as it happens. You want to make sure you file a claim when all of the details are fresh in your mind, and the longer you wait the higher the chances are that you forget a key detail. Make sure your report is in writing on an official workers’ compensation form.
GET THE MEDICAL TREATMENT YOU NEED
Even if you are usually hesitant to go to the doctor to get an injury treated, it is important that you get your workplace injury treated immediately. Any delay in getting medical treatment will make it appear as if the injury is not serious enough to merit workers’ comp. Most people delay getting medical treatment because they are afraid of the cost of treatment, but with workers’ compensation, you will get reimbursed for any expenses.
KEEP AN ACCURATE AND DETAILED RECORD
Every detail matters. No matter how mundane a detail or note may seem, you need to make sure you have a record of it for your workers’ compensation settlement. The more information you have, the better you can argue your case. Make sure you have all documented medical records, fees and expenses, and other purchases that are in any way related to your injury. Some commonly overlooked expenditures include the cost to fill up a tank of gas, parking fees, and any needed medical supplies or medications.
BE SPECIFIC AND EXPLICIT TO YOUR DOCTOR
Some people tend to downplay injuries at the doctor. If their pain level is a 4 out of 10, they may tell the doctor it is a 2 out of 10 to “save face”. Other people may not want to describe a minor ache or pain because they do not feel it is substantial enough to warrant medical attention. When it comes to workers’ compensation, you need to leave these habits behind and provide a specific and explicit account of your injury and symptoms to your doctor. Be honest and do not be afraid to let the doctor know every single detail about the injury and how you currently feel. Some specific details may seem insignificant now, but they may be the difference between a small workers’ comp settlement and a huge one!
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY TO INSURANCE COMPANIES
You are not legally obligated to answer any questions the insurance company asks in regards to your workplace injury, so be selective with what you disclose. The insurance company will do everything in their power to lower your settlement, so do not give them any ammunition they can use against you. Consult with your attorney before answering any questions, and think carefully before you speak to insurance companies.
MAXIMIZE YOUR WORKERS’ COMP SETTLEMENT
If you are looking to maximize your workers’ compensation settlement, The The Law Office of Matthew Russell can help. Our law firm specializes in workers’ compensation cases, and we fight hard for our clients to get the biggest possible settlement. With two convenient locations in San Diego and El Centro, we are ready to get you the compensation you deserve.
To learn more, contact The Law Office of Matthew Russell today by calling (619) 544-1506