Some professionals assume that workers’ compensation benefits are automatic if they get hurt at work. They believe that whenever they inform their employers of their injury or diagnosis, they can easily access medical benefits and disability coverage provided through workers’ compensation.
Unfortunately, that laid-back attitude can actually have a negative impact on an employee’s eligibility. There are strict rules included in state workers’ compensation regulations, and a failure to adhere to them could result in a denied benefits claim. Certain key steps, such as reporting the injury to an employer, are subject to restrictive timelines.
How long do workers have to report an injury?
The best time to report a job incident or job-related diagnosis is immediately after seeing a doctor or experiencing an incident on the job. Sometimes, workers may not realize that they need medical attention immediately after an incident, leading to a delay.
Other times, they may suffer such significant injuries that emergency transportation for medical care is necessary. They may only start thinking about their need for workers’ compensation benefits after health care professionals stabilize their injuries.
Thankfully, the law does allow for a bit of flexibility regarding injury and diagnosis reporting. Workers have up to 90 days from the date when they get hurt on the job or a doctor diagnoses them with a major medical issue to notify their employers. The sooner that workers notify their employers, the sooner they may be able to begin the benefits claims process.
Employees who require time away from work or who expect a challenge to their workers’ compensation claims may require support as they apply for benefits. Consulting with an attorney can make it easier for workers to fulfill their obligations, including filing necessary reports with their employers before their term to do so expires.
