Avoiding Workers’ Compensation Mistakes After a Workplace Injury
Protecting Your Rights After a Workplace Injury in Louisiana
Getting injured on the job can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of your next steps. Avoiding workers’ compensation mistakes early in the process is critical to protecting your rights and securing the benefits you’re entitled to. Workers’ compensation exists to provide financial support for medical expenses and lost wages—but many workers unintentionally jeopardize their claims by making preventable errors.
At Villeret Law Firm, we help injured workers across Louisiana understand their rights and secure the benefits they deserve. Below, we outline the most common pitfalls—and how to avoid them.
📞 Have questions about your claim? Call (985) 327-2601 or send us a message to set up a free consultation.
Avoiding Workers’ Compensation Mistakes: 5 Critical Errors to Avoid
1️⃣ Delayed Reporting of the Injury
Promptly reporting an injury to your employer is a fundamental step in the workers’ compensation claim process. Failure to do so can negatively impact the trajectory and success of your claim.
✅ Tip: Report the injury as soon as possible—in writing if you can—and keep a copy for your records.
2️⃣ Overlooking Pain and Symptoms
Ignoring or underestimating pain and symptoms can not only deteriorate your health but also weaken your claim due to insufficient medical documentation from the outset.
✅ Tip: Clearly explain how the injury happened and be honest about your symptoms, even if they seem minor. Make sure all symptoms are reported and documented by your doctor.
3️⃣ Giving Recorded Statements Without Legal Representation
Adjusters may seek to utilize your statements against you in your claim. Ensuring that an experienced attorney like Chase Villeret is present during any communication with the insurance company will safeguard your interests and rights.
✅ Tip: Don’t agree to a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer first. Insurance companies may try to twist your words.
4️⃣ Accepting the Insurance Company’s Preferred Doctor
Ensure your injuries are impartially assessed by opting for a doctor of your choosing rather than defaulting to the insurance company’s preference, which may not prioritize your best health interests.
✅ Tip: Select a physician you trust and notify your employer of your choice. This is a crucial step in avoiding workers’ compensation mistakes that could impact your recovery and benefits.
5️⃣ Concealing Previous Injuries
A transparent medical history is vital. Concealing past injuries can undermine the integrity of your claim and may result in the denial of your workers’ compensation benefits.
✅ Tip: Always be honest about past injuries and your medical history. Trying to hide them can backfire and lead to the denial of your current claim.
Avoiding Workers’ Compensation Mistakes Starts with a Call to Villeret Law
You don’t have to wait until your claim is denied to get help. At Villeret Law Firm, we assist clients at every stage—from filing initial claims to appealing unfair denials. If you’re experiencing any of the following, give us a call:
- Your claim was delayed, denied, or undervalued
- You were pressured to return to work before you were ready
- You’re unsure which doctor to see
- You’re facing retaliation after reporting your injury
📞 Call (985) 327-2601 for a free consultation today.
Free Resources for Injured Workers in Louisiana
📄 LWC-WC-1008 – Disputed Claim for Compensation
📄 LWC-WC-1010 – Request for Medical Treatment
📄 Choice of Physician Form (English | Spanish)
For help completing these forms or navigating the claims process, contact us directly.
Get the Guidance You Need
If you’ve been injured at work, don’t let simple mistakes cost you the benefits you deserve. Avoiding workers’ compensation mistakes could make all the difference in securing your financial future. Villeret Law Firm is here to help you avoid pitfalls, stand up to the insurance companies, and get your life back on track.
📞 Schedule your free case evaluation today: (985) 327-2601
