Workers' Compensation is valuable in many ways. Being injured on the job can be devastating financially. By filing a workers' comp claim, you can get the financial assistance you need to pay for your medical expenses and cover your lost wages. There are both advantages and disadvantages to filing a claim. It's important to know as much about the process as possible so you get the maximum benefit out of your claim.
Many people believe that they need to be doing their job when they get injured. That isn't necessarily true. In order to file a Workers' Compensation claim, you need to be on the job, traveling for work, on the premises, or doing an activity that is in some way job-related. If you are on lunch and trip over something and are injured, you would still be able to file a Workers' Comp claim.
Many people do jobs where they spend part of their time away from their place of employment. If they are injured away from their office or while they are traveling, employees can still file a Workers' Compensation claim to cover their medical expenses and provide them with a percentage of their lost wages. No matter where the accident occurs, as long as it is job-related you can file a claim.
Workers' Comp is not your only option. You can also take legal action against your employer if you believe that they acted negligently. If you choose to file a Workers' Comp claim, however, you are giving up your right to pursue other types of legal action. You are agreeing that the benefits you receive through your claim will be sufficient to meet your needs, both now and in the future.
Depending on the severity of your injury and the amount of your claim, your employer may offer you a settlement that is less than you deserve. It's important that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision before you choose to sign a settlement agreement. Take your time and talk to your insurance agent and a Workers' Compensation attorney. They will be able to answer all of your questions so you are fully informed.
You cannot be fired if you file for Workers' Compensation. If you live in a “no-fault” state, however, your employer may terminate you for other reasons if they have valid cause to do so. If this situation arises, you may be able to appeal the decision and get your job back. You will have to prove your case and show cause why you feel the termination was related to your Workers' Comp claim.
If you have questions about a Workers' Compensation claim, don't wait to get the answers you need. Contact the reputable agents at CF&P Insurance Brokers today. We can help ensure that your claim is approved.
