Did you know that what you do when you’re injured on the job can impact your workers’ comp benefits?
There are certain things that you should avoid if you want to make sure that you’re taken care of financially after a work accident. Read on to learn more about what not to do while on workers’ comp.
What Not to Do While On Workers’ Compensation:
If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s natural to feel confused and uncertain about what steps to take next. However, there are some important mistakes to avoid as you navigate the New Jersey workers’ comp process.
Mistake #1: Missing Doctor’s Appointments or Therapy Sessions
Missing authorized doctor’s appointments or therapy sessions might seem like a harmless oversight, but it can have serious consequences for your workers’ comp case. Not attending these appointments can signal to the insurance company that you are not taking your injury or recovery seriously. In addition, missing a session means losing valuable opportunities to receive treatment and progress toward recovery.
It’s important to keep in mind that the ultimate goal of the workers’ comp process is to get you back to work in as little time as possible, so actively participating in your care plan is crucial. If scheduling conflicts arise, communicate with your doctor’s office or therapist as soon as possible to reschedule rather than skip an appointment altogether, a prime example of what not to do while on workers’ comp.
Remember, every missed appointment is a missed opportunity for healing and getting back to work. Stay on top of your appointments and make the most out of each session for the best chance at a successful workers’ comp case.
Mistake #2: Underselling Your Complaints and Not Revealing Prior Injuries
Another example of what not to do while on workers’ comp is failing to provide accurate details to your doctor.
As someone receiving workers’ compensation benefits, it can be tempting to try and exaggerate the extent of your injuries in order to ensure continued eligibility for benefits. However, failing to provide accurate information about your injury to your doctor can have serious consequences.
For one thing, it may prevent you from getting the proper treatment that you need to recover. In addition, if the full extent of your injury is later discovered, it may lead to accusations of fraud and potential legal action. So what’s the solution?
Always aim to provide an honest and thorough description of what happened, how you feel, and what limitations you are experiencing with each visit to your workers’ comp doctor. And keep in mind that comprehensive medical documentation is crucial for successfully obtaining the benefits and support you deserve.
Being truthful and transparent with your physician is ultimately in your own best interest during your workers’ comp case.
Mistake #3: Posting On Social Media About Your Workers’ Comp Case
When it comes to workers’ compensation cases, what you post on social media can significantly impact the outcome of your case. In fact, many insurance companies now routinely check social media sites like Facebook and Twitter for information that could be used to deny or reduce benefits.
For example, if you post photos of yourself engaging in physical activity that is inconsistent with the nature of your injury, the insurance company could use this as evidence to support their claim that your injury is not as serious as you claim.
Additionally, avoid posting any details about your workers’ comp case on social media, as this information could be used against you in court. If you must discuss your case online, consider doing so using a private message or email rather than a public forum.
In short, it’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to social media and your workers’ comp case. Another example of what not to do while on workers’ comp: avoid posting anything that could be used against you, and never post any confidential information about your case online.
Mistake #4: Quitting Your Job
While being injured at work can be overwhelming, quitting your job is not the solution and is yet another example of what not to do while on workers’ comp.
Many may feel tempted to leave their job in search of a new one that they feel is safer, but it is important to remember that workers’ compensation exists to cover medical expenses and lost wages due to a workplace injury. Quitting may negatively impact your ability to receive these benefits and could potentially disqualify you from receiving future workers’ compensation claims.
It’s also important not to cut back on your hours or reduce your job duties without consulting with your employer and medical professionals first. This could also lead to loss of benefits and impact the success of your recovery.
If you have concerns about returning to work or about your workplace environment, discuss them with your employer and seek guidance from a lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation cases. Remember, taking care of yourself and getting back on the road to recovery should always be your top priority. Don’t let the frustration of being injured lead you into making a hasty decision that could have long-term consequences.
Mistake #5: Not Hiring a Workers’ Comp Lawyer
One of the most impactful mistakes that many individuals can make while on workers’ compensation is not hiring a lawyer. You may think they don’t need one or that you can handle your case on their own, but this often leads to important steps being overlooked or not fully understood. Always remember: it costs you nothing to retain a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Even if your employer seems to be taking care of you and/or doing what’s in your best interest, the truth is that they are looking out for their business first and foremost. On the other hand, a workers’ comp lawyer will have your best interests at heart and will fight to get you the maximum benefits and support you’re entitled to.
Additionally, a qualified workers’ comp lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system, understand your rights, and protect you from being taken advantage of by insurance companies or your employer. If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The sooner you have a lawyer on your side, the better your chances of getting the full benefits and compensation you deserve.
They may even have more workers’ comp tips and tricks for you, and be able to give you more examples of what not to do while on workers’ comp.
Conclusion: What Not to Do While On Workers’ Compensation
In conclusion, these are just a few of the most important examples of what not to do while on workers’ comp. If you or someone you know has been injured at work, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer for assistance. With their help, you can get the best possible outcome for your work injury claim and ensure that you’re taken care of both now and in the future.
Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen: New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen – The People First Lawyers – have been helping injured workers maximize their New Jersey workers’ comp claims since 1995. Our law firm works tirelessly for our clients to ensure you receive medical treatment, financial compensation, and justice, and can help you to know what not to do while on workers’ comp. With four board-certified workers’ compensation law attorneys on our team, we are well-equipped to help you obtain your workers’ compensation benefits.
If you’ve been the victim of a work-related injury or occupational disease, contact our office to schedule a free consultation or call us 24/7 at (856) 751-7676.
Justin Cohen, Partner
Justin is a partner at Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen and a Board-Certified Workers’ Compensation Attorney. He is believed to be the youngest attorney in New Jersey to receive his Workers’ Compensation Board Certification. His aggressive style and diligent efforts have helped him to recover significant benefits for his clients.
