If you have suffered an ankle injury while on the job, you can pursue a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. Most employers must maintain the special insurance for their employees at no additional charge. This insurance coverage is designed to protect the employer and the employees in the event of a workplace injury or the diagnosis of an occupational disease. Workers’ compensation includes medical benefits and covers a portion of lost wages while you are recovering from the injury. So, to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, you will need to seek medical care. However, you cannot just see any doctor. You will need to see a physician from an approved list of workers’ comp providers available from your employer. Why You Must See a Doctor A physician will need to diagnose your injury and come up with a treatment plan, so you can recover as fully and as quickly as possible. You cannot be paid for time off work unless a physician has provided you with documentation that indicates your injury is too serious for you to be able to work. For example, if you have severe sprain and your job requires you to stand for several hours every day, then the physician might order you to be off your feet and rest for a week. However, that must be in writing and provided to your employer for you to receive compensation for that time off work. If you miss work without a doctor’s note, you will not be receiving workers’ compensation benefits for that time off. The Process for Filing a Claim If you are hurt while working, you will need to seek medical care right away. However, you should go to a physician on the approved list. If you do not see a copy of the list at your workplace, such as by a time clock or in a breakroom, you should ask your manager or supervisor. Make sure you notify a manager of the injury, so an accident report can be completed. You should give a detailed statement explaining how you were injured as soon as you can, but don’t give that statement while you are not up to par or while you are under the influence of medications. In those cases, you should tell your employer you will need to wait to give your statement. Make sure your employer is aware of any witnesses as well, so they can also give statements. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you are injured while at working, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorneys. Ankle injuries can lead to long-term problems, so you need to make sure the lasting affects of your injury and future missed work and medical needs are considered. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to have your details shared with a workers’ comp attorney who will help you get your claim on the right track. Additional Resources Top Tips for Applying for Workers’ Comp. With an Ankle Injury Tips for Filing Workers' Compensation for an Ankle Injury What Should I Do If I Don’t Like the Company-Approved Doctor?
