Dealing with Insurance Companies
While many people assume that their employer pays workers’ compensation directly, it’s actually an insurance company that pays out benefits to employees injured on the job. And, like any other type of insurance company, whether it’s one handling home repairs or auto damage, the insurer will want to limit how much it pays in compensation.
That’s why it’s critical that you make your workers’ comp claim as airtight as possible. Your health and financial wellbeing are on the line. If you’ve been injured on the job, you’ll want to keep these points in mind.
Report your injury. Your case hinges on your injury—and the facts surrounding it. Insurance companies sometimes try to argue that the accident never happened, or they’ll claim that you were injured outside of work. If you don’t report your injury immediately, it makes it much easier for them to cast doubt on your account. If you report your injury in person to your manager or supervisor, follow up with an email—just so you have the dated account in writing.
Get prompt medical attention. Insurance companies will also need documentation of your injuries. When you receive treatment immediately after your injury, you lessen the likelihood of them arguing you were injured off the job. You also want to be able to tell the insurance company that you’ve kept your appointments and follow the provider’s advice.
Keeps things short. Insurance adjusters sometimes try to poke holes in your story, or they’ll use offhand comments against you. To limit this, you’ll want to stick to the facts—leaving emotions, opinions and embellishment out of it. Document any communication you have with the insurance company, noting down the name of the adjuster, along with the date, time and substance of the conversation. And if they try to offer a settlement, first speak to an Atlanta workers’ compensation attorney.
Be aware of surveillance. Many workers’ comp cases are resolved once the facts of the matter are out. But if the insurance company questions your story, you might be in for more uncomfortable exchanges. Insurance companies sometimes even work with private investigators to watch you at home or around town, looking for evidence that your injuries aren’t as limiting as you report. If you think you’re under surveillance, you’ll want to speak to an attorney who has handled successful workers’ compensation cases.
Prepare for an independent medical examination. If the insurance company questions the extent of your injuries, they may want you to undergo an independent medical exam. While you’ll be required to comply, you will want to know what to expect first. The provider may ask challenging questions about your medical history. Review your earlier medical records and speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer first.
Why do you need to call a Georgia workers’ comp law firm?
You can’t count on an insurance adjuster explaining how the workers’ comp system works, or what benefits you may be entitled to. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you better understand the system, guide your conversations with the insurance company and ensure you have all the documentation you need to make a strong case. If you’ve been injured on the job, you need an Atlanta workers’ compensation attorney. The Law Offices of Laura Lanzisera can help value your claim and negotiate with the insurance company. Contact our office today for a free consultation.