Getting injured at work can induce a number of stressors, adding to the everyday worries that you may already have. For many, working is not an option but a necessity in order to clothe, house, and feed themselves and their families. This is especially true for those with young children or a number of people who depend on their support. Being unable to work and earn a steady income can be your worst nightmare, but getting injured at your workplace can seem even more daunting.
You may think that reporting your workplace for unsafe conditions or seeking workers’ compensation could put your job at risk, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you can successfully make your claim, keep your job, and receive the proper compensation that you need and deserve.
Proper Steps for Filing a Claim
It is not uncommon for workers who are hurt on the job to receive significant financial support for their injuries and recovery time. Although it may not seem difficult to do, there are many important details that must be followed when making a claim. If you deviate from these guidelines, you could lose your chance of securing financial assistance.
It is important to note the time constraints of workers’ compensation claims so that you do not miss your window of opportunity. If you are injured on the job, you must officially report your injury within 15 days of its occurrence. If you wait too long to make the claim, you will no longer be able to do so. There are a number of forms that need to be completed by both you and your supervisor to validate the report. The quicker you make the claim, the faster you will be able to receive the necessary compensation for your injuries.
In order to avoid medical bias, Tennessee requires workers to select a medical physician to complete their physical report and provide medical treatment from a panel of medical professionals selected by their employer. This will be covered by any compensation that you receive, but if you are looking for a second opinion on the diagnoses, you will need to pay for the checkup from your own finances.
What Type of Coverage Can I Receive?
Workers’ compensation will cover a number of costs, which includes medical bills and travel expenses incurred to visit your medical professional for the injuries. If a doctor requires you to stop working due to the severity of the injuries, you may receive temporary disability benefits. This support typically estimates to two-thirds of your weekly earnings. For those employees who are required to reduce their hours due to their injuries but can still work part time, they may be eligible for partial disability benefits to make up for the lost hours and pay.
Call a Chattanooga Workplace Injury Attorney
As an employee, you may avoid filing for workers’ compensation until it is absolutely necessary to make ends meet. While this is noble and may feel obligatory out of respect for your employer, it is often unnecessary and unfair to you. A workers’ compensation claim should be made if an injury is affecting your work, income, and personal life. At Warren & Griffin, P.C., we have worked with employees from all different industries to help them secure the financial support they need. We believe that no employee should suffer in silence, especially those who are dependent on each paycheck. If you or someone you know has been injured on the job, contact our Tennessee workers’ compensation lawyers today at 423-265-4878 to schedule your confidential consultation.