Why A Warehouse Workers' Compensation Case Might Not Be Straightforward
Warehouse work is a strenuous job and there is always a risk that you'll become injured. Merchandise might fall on you or you may simply suffer from repetitive strain injuries. While you might think that a workers' compensation insurance program might be very straightforward, it is, unfortunately, more complicated than you might think if you aren't working with an experienced workers' compensation attorney.
Many Types of Injuries Can Occur at a Warehouse
Some workers suffer from slip-and-fall accidents, while other workers are struck by falling objects. Some workers are injured when involved in forklift accidents. Others are injured by defective equipment or tools.
When working with some machines, workers can become entangled and injured. Regardless of the type of injury you suffer, you must record it and report it to your employer so your claim process can begin.
Your Employer Might Not Report Your Injuries
Your employer might be concerned that reporting your injuries will cause their insurance rates to go up and they may also believe that failing to report the claim will cause the problem to go away. If you suspect that your claim wasn't reported, you'll want to bring this up with a workers' compensation attorney.
Your Doctor Might Not Help You
After your warehouse accident, your doctor might need to be guided on how they can help your workers' compensation case. You will need a referral from your doctor and not from the doctor who was appointed by your employer or by the worker's compensation insurance provider. While you are required to see a second doctor, the opinion of your family doctor is crucial.
Your Workers' Compensation Benefits Might Be Less Than You Think
Your medical bills will be covered under workers' compensation, but you will only receive a portion of your lost wages, based on state regulations. When you have reached the state of "Maximum Medical Improvement," your doctor will determine which parts of your body are disabled and how disabled they are. For example, if you injured your right leg and are forced to walk with a limp, you may be considered to only have 50% of the use of your right leg.
Then, you may be entitled to compensation based on how injured your leg is. Because you will lose money due to only receiving a portion of your wages, it's important to get better quickly. However, you will always want to consult with a workers' compensation attorney when attempting to return to your warehouse job.
Contact workers' compensation lawyers in your area to learn more.
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