In California, an injured worker doesn’t need to prove negligence or fault when filing a workers’ compensation claim. However, injured workers still need to prove a variety of other matters before receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Workers must prove that they had an employee and employer relationship with their employer at the time of the accident. They must also prove the injury occurred while they were working. Additionally, workers must prove their injury and the extent of their injury. The key to proving these things is proper documentation. An injured employee needs to meticulously document every step of their injury to have a better chance of being approved for workers’ compensation benefits.
Thoroughly documenting a workers’ compensation claim takes time, but the effort is worth it. Evidence comes in many forms, and all evidence is vital to the success of a workers’ compensation claim. While people tend to remember to document their medical bills, other forms of evidence can be overlooked. All evidence relating to your injury is essential to document, even if it does not seem relevant. Below are five tips for thoroughly documenting a workplace injury.
It’s vital to document early and often. As time passes, memories fade, details become confused, critical physical evidence may be lost. Any physical markers of your injury may heal over time, and if there’s no documentary evidence of their existence, which can prove to be a challenge. Understandably, you’re focused on getting medical help when you are injured. However, it’s beneficial to document the accident scene and the injury as soon as possible.
Written documentation is a key element when filing a workers’ compensation claim, so it’s vital to get all relevant information written down. This includes writing everything your doctor says about your injury. These documented statements of your injury can be beneficial for your claim.
When submitting documents relating to your workers’ compensation claim, it’s important to label each document carefully. Careful labeling ensures nothing is misplaced and is accounted for and helps you ensure you have all the information needed.
Keep copies of every document submitted in case either your employer or insurance company requests another copy. It’s also beneficial to have multiple copies if one copy is lost.
In addition to all documents relating to the description of your workplace injury, any medical-related receipts will be necessary for reimbursement for any out-of-pocket medical expenses that you might have paid for.
At KCNS Law Group, we are dedicated to helping injured workers in California receive the fair workers’ compensation benefits owed to them. While California workers are entitled to workers’ compensation, the process is not always easy and can often become complicated. We believe in advocating for the rights of injured workers and have the skills and expertise to ensure our clients have all the evidence necessary for a successful claim. If you’ve been injured at work, your and your family’s quality of life depends on your ability to receive the maximum amount of workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to under the law. For the sake of your loved ones who depend on you, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer to fight for your right to compensation. Schedule a consultation with us at (818) 937-9255 or fill out our contact form on our website.
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