Virginia Beach workers’ compensation claims: Pointers for injured workers

A regular day at work can turn into a nightmare following an accident. Workplace incidents in Virginia Beach often leave workers in a terrible state of despair. Luckily, Virginia’s workers’ compensation system is designed to help injured workers. If you were hurt on the job, get help from an experienced lawyer soon. Below, we have discussed this and other relevant pointers. 

1. Hire a workers’ comp lawyer: While the workers’ compensation claims process in Virginia may look simple on paper, there are inherent complications. Also, your employer only pays for the insurance, but it’s the carrier that pays for your benefits. Insurance companies often deny and delay such claims, and if you don’t have an attorney, you may not know how to fight for your rights and avoid the typical mistakes. 
2. You have to notify your employer: Virginia laws have set certain obligations for injured workers. While your employer must have workers’ compensation insurance, you are also responsible for notifying them of a work injury as soon as possible. The laws allow 30 days, but you should inform your supervisor in writing at the earliest. 
3. Complete the necessary paperwork: Besides informing your employer that you were hurt on the job isn’t enough. You also have the next step, which is about completing and submitting the workers’ compensation claim form. You can get this from your employer. There is a time limit of two years according to the statute of limitations, which means you must act early. 
4. No reason to worry about your employer’s reaction: The workers’ compensation system is not a fault-based one, which means you don’t have to blame your employer or supervisor for the accident. Your employer cannot terminate your job because you filed a claim, and if they do so, you have the right to take further legal action. 
5. You may recover diverse benefits: Each workers’ compensation case is unique, and depending on the situation, you could recover the complete cost of medical care, payment for lost wages, and compensation if you have suffered a serious disability or injury. 
6. You can appeal: If the insurance carrier denies your claim, you don’t have to give up. With a workers’ compensation lawyer on your side, you can file an appeal, for which there will be a hearing. You can also take action if you are paid less than what you deserve. 

Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer today and discuss your case to get a complete review.