If you have been hurt while working or if you have recently been diagnosed with an occupational illness, you need to consult with a workers' compensation attorney right away. You can file your workers' compensation claim as soon as you have been hurt on the job or as soon as you have been diagnosed with a work-related illness. If you postpone filing a claim, it can impact you financially and it can pose a serious threat to your ability to receive benefits. By waiting to file a claim, the workers' compensation carrier might deny your claim for benefits and allege that your injury or illness was not work-related. Also, every state has a statute of limitations for filing a claim, so if you wait too long you might not be able to file a claim at all. If you have been hurt at work or you are suffering from a work-related illness, you should consult with a workers' compensation attorney right away. You need to make sure your claim gets on track as soon as possible so you get all the benefits that you are entitled to receive after such an incident. To Proceed with A Claim Filing a workers' compensation claim can be complicated. You need to make sure you have experienced legal counsel on your side so you can make sure you get on the right track. You have to gather all the documentation and evidence necessary to support your claim. Any eyewitnesses need to give written statements as well in support of your claim. It is more complicated to file a claim if you have an illness such as cancer that has developed over time from exposure to chemicals or an injury from repetitive trauma, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These kinds of situations are different and the time limit to file a claim starts as soon as you missed work to see a doctor because of the illness or injury and as soon as you knew, or when you should have known, the injury resulted from your work activities. Consult with A Workers' Compensation Attorney If you have suffered injuries or an illness because of your work duties, you should consult with a workers' compensation attorney right away. Your attorney will investigate the accident, gather up all the evidence and documentation, then get your claim filed. Any denials can be appealed and your lawyer will fight to ensure you get the benefits that you are entitled to receive following such an incident. Workers' compensation includes medical benefits, covers a portion of lost wages established by state law, and sometimes offers a lump sum for long-term disabilities. Most lawyers’ advance expenses and then deduct those from your settlement. You have nothing to lose, so schedule a free case evaluation today so you can get your claim on track. Time is of the essence, so don't wait until it is too late to file your claim for workers' compensation benefits. Additional Resources Time to File a Workers' Comp Claim? My Claim was Denied. Can I Appeal It?