On the surface, the workers’ compensation process appears simple: if you are injured at work, you just make a claim, and you will be reimbursed for your medical expenditures as well as benefits if you are temporarily or permanently handicapped. The truth is that the procedure may be tough, and your employer has the power to make it even more difficult for you.
Keep reading to learn why an employer might make it hard for you. If you require the help of a workers’ compensation and employment law attorney, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542.
Employers don’t want premiums costs to go up
The cost of workers’ compensation insurance for a company is governed by several factors, including the number of claims submitted and the value of those claims. As a result, an employer that is committed to keeping rates low may be disappointed to learn of yet another workers’ compensation claim. They may also be wary of claims that are too costly.
Employers sometimes have bias against employees
Employers, or specific persons such as managers and supervisors, may have a prejudice against a claim based on the type of injury or even the person who has been injured in some situations. “Invisible” injuries and cumulative trauma injuries are the most likely to cause this.
For example, if an employee complains of acute back discomfort after bending down to lift a box, a witness may not be able to tell how they were injured. It may appear as if they are exaggerating their discomfort. If the management does not take the matter seriously, the employee may be encouraged to “work through the discomfort.”
The same thing might happen if you have a cumulative injury like carpal tunnel syndrome. Many of the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, and tingling, cannot be objectively proven using x-rays or other imaging techniques, so a manager may dismiss the complaint.
It’s crucial to remember that just because an ailment is difficult to identify doesn’t mean it’s fictitious or unworthy of workers’ compensation payments. You don’t want to ignore your symptoms or try to work through the discomfort since failing to disclose your injury as soon as you see it might jeopardize your claim and potentially result in your benefits being denied.
Don’t give up if you have a claim
If your employer is refusing to help you with your workers’ compensation claim, it’s important to get help from a specialist who will treat your injuries with respect. You can ensure that your claim is handled properly from start to end by engaging a workers’ compensation attorney to assist you. We have a lot of expertise with workers’ compensation claims at PLBH, and we’ll offer you the greatest opportunity of getting your claim granted swiftly and with the right benefits.