Laws regarding workers’ compensation vary from one state to another. Depending on your state laws and the wording of your workers’ compensation settlement, you might be able to get additional care covered as well as disability benefits if your claim was already settled. In other states, that might not be possible. Sometimes a condition will start deteriorating before the claim is settled, which can be very beneficial to the overall success of your claim and determining which benefits you are entitled and the overall value of your settlement. What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover? Workers’ compensation offers medical benefits, which cover the cost of the medical care you need to recover from your workplace injury or work-related illness. It also covers about two-thirds of your regular salary while you are unable to work because of the severity of your injury or illness. Workers’ compensation claims are complex. You should always enlist the help of a workers’ compensation attorney. An accident injury lawyer will help you throughout the claims process and protect your rights. They are especially beneficial in a situation like this when the condition deteriorates and more medical care, such as surgery, is needed. What to Do If Your Condition Worsens If your condition gets a lot worse after a workers’ compensation claim has been filed, you will need to continue with the necessary medical care. Medical treatment will help ensure you recover as best as possible. Also, without care from a workers’ compensation approved provider, your medical benefits will not kick in. Your attorney will also know when to settle your claim and when to keep it open because of the future needs for care and time off work. Some claims are much more challenging than others, but workplace injury attorneys have experience in dealing with such situations. Your workers’ compensation lawyer will look out for your best interests and will make sure the right decisions are made regarding your settlement and your care. What to Do If You Are Injured at Work If you suffer an injury while working, you should report it to your employer right away. Your employer will most likely provide you with a list of healthcare providers that are in the network with their workers’ compensation insurance plan. You will need to choose a provider from those options for medical benefits to cover the costs. To be compensated for time off work, you will need to have a medical excuse ordering you to be off work. This note must be from one of the approved medical providers on the list. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have been injured while working, or if you have already filed a workers’ compensation claim and your condition worsened, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney who practices in your state. Workers’ compensation claims are challenging, and many legitimate claims are denied. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today so a workplace accident lawyer in your area can review your case. Additional Resources What If My Claim Was Settled But I Need Further Medical Care? When Should I Start My Workers' Compensation Claim?
