subject: Avoiding Workers Compensation Claim Problems [print this page] As clichd as it may sound, accidents do happen and can happen when you least expect it. It can be as mundane as tripping over your shoe laces or it could be something as major as falling down from a ladder while you are performing your work. If you find yourself involved in a situation similar to the latter example, then you should know what your choices are and what steps you should take.
Oftentimes, companies have their employees covered should something happen to them in the line of work. However, there are times when employers do not necessarily appreciate having to pay you for the injuries you have suffered during a work accident. In cases like these, arming yourself with the right set of information is your best course of action.
One of the things that you have to keep in mind is that, under the Virginia Law, you have the right to sue your employer if he or she fires you as retaliation for having to pay compensation. In this type of lawsuit, you can actually recover actual damages as well as attorneys fees. A preventive way to handle this situation is to ensure that you strictly follow company rules and regulations so that your employer would not find an excuse to terminate your services.
There are also times when an employer is unwilling to pay any workers compensation. One way to deal with this is to ensure that you have the proper documentation. Report the incident to your supervisor immediately and, as much as possible, take pictures to document your injuries as well as the place where the accident occurred. It is also to your best interest to secure hospital and medical records indicating the extent of your injuries.
Not only do you have to contend with your employer, you would also need to deal with insurance adjustors. Because these people are more focused on ensuring that you do not get the full workers compensation benefit, they would oftentimes make use of a number of strategies to trick you into just settling for whatever amount they are willing to pay.
In order to ensure that you have the best chance of winning your workers compensation claim, you should hire an injury lawyer specializing in that area. Make sure that you have all the documents you need so that your lawyer can easily come up with strategies for your case.
