Millions of Americans are injured on the job each year. Notoriously, employers underestimate these accidents at work. In 2008, according to AFL-CIO figures, 4.6 million employees suffered work-related illnesses or injuries. But the real figure is estimated to be at least two to three times higher. Why is this?

When an employee is injured on the job, their boss is generally expected to cover all medical expenses. To do so, they must file a claim with their insurance provider, which can lead to higher insurance premiums in the future. As a result, bosses often discourage workers from reporting their injuries. Many subordinates accept their employers out of loyalty, but regret the decision almost immediately.

To do?

To get started, always notify your supervisor, the personnel department and your union representative (if you have one) as soon as you are injured or ill. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to receive the treatment and benefits to which you are entitled. If your supervisor asks you not to report the incident, tell him that you simply want to follow the established procedure.

That procedure begins with the “Employee’s Claim for Workers’ Compensation Benefits” form, which must be completed and returned to your supervisor as soon as possible after the accident occurs. Be sure to obtain a copy of the report and include any information that may strengthen your claim for benefits, such as the names of employees who may have witnessed the incident.

In addition to medical coverage, an injured employee may be entitled to temporary or permanent disability support, as well as vocational rehabilitation, all of which will be carefully reviewed before being denied or approved. If your claim for any of these benefits is denied, you can appeal the decision in court. At this time, it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of a workers’ compensation attorney.

How can they help?

The most common reason compensation claims are denied is because they are not filed in a timely manner. New laws have shortened many deadlines, and employees who do not file a claim soon after being injured on the job may not be entitled to restitution. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney knows the laws related to coverage in her state and can file a lawsuit on her behalf.

What will they need from you?

The first thing legal counsel will request is a copy of the Employee’s Claim for Workers’ Compensation Benefits form. He or she will also ask for accurate records of your injury or illness, including days of work missed, dates of medical treatment, mileage or expenses incurred for medical treatment, and all out-of-pocket medical and prescription drug expenses. . The more accurate your records are, the stronger your case will be.

Before the law firm accepts your case, the attorneys will review all the facts of your work accident. Please note that filing a false claim is a felony, a felony in some states. The injury must have occurred at work. The aggravation of a prior or pre-existing condition may not entitle you to workers’ compensation, disability, or vocational rehabilitation. That being said, if you are injured on the job, it is important to take the proper steps. Early missteps can result in denial of treatment and support to which you are legally entitled.