As a Florida workers’ compensation doctor, I’ve seen my fair share of mistakes that need to be avoided when filing a claim. If you’ve been hurt at work or want to prepare in case you are injured in the future, use these practical tips to give yourself a better chance of being approved.

Report Your Injury Immediately

The very first thing you need to do after becoming aware of an injury at work is to tell your supervisor. You only have a certain amount of time after getting hurt to provide your employer with the details and file a workers’ compensation claim, so the faster you get the ball rolling the better off you’ll be. It’s always better to err on the side of caution. Report even small injuries because they can turn into bigger injuries in the future.

Get Medical Treatment Right Away

Your primary priority after sustaining an injury is the recover as quickly as possible so you can get back to earning a living. The faster you see a Florida workers’ compensation doctor the sooner you’ll be able to return to work. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible can help you cut your recovery time and lead to a fuller recovery.

Seeing a doctor promptly can also provide you with the documentation you need to prove your workers’ compensation case. Delaying treatment will only count against you in your insurance provider’s eyes.

Understand the Workers’ Comp Options Available to You

If you’re injured at work, it’s important that you understand the different types of workers’ compensation to which you are entitled. You should be aware of the following types of workers’ compensation:

  • Temporary disability benefits – These give you an income while you recover from an injury.
  • Permanent disability benefits – These benefits offer you compensation for lasting impairments.
  • Mileage – This benefit compensates you for travel to and from your Florida workers’ compensation doctor.
  • Medical treatment – This benefit pays for the medical services you require to recover.

If you have any questions about the type of benefits you qualify for, talk to your supervisor or doctor.

Be Prepared for an Independent Medical Examination

When insurance companies want to reduce or terminate your benefits, they order an independent medical examination. If your insurance schedules an independent medical examination, you must attend it or you could lose the benefits you have.

Start Keeping Records after an Injury

Be meticulous in your record keeping after you are hurt. Keep all of your medical documentation that concern your workers’ comp claim. Such documents include your accident report, correspondence from your employer or insurance company regarding your claim, and any documents detailing work restrictions. Having the evidence to support your claim will help you get the benefits you need.

Get in touch with a Florida Workers’ Compensation Doctor Today

I hope these tips help you as you begin the process of filing your claim. If you need help showing causation between your injury and your work, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.