What NOT To Do While on Workers’ Comp

Workers’ comp is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who have been injured or become ill as a result of their job. While incredibly beneficial when needed, it’s important to understand what NOT to do while on workers’ comp in the State of Louisiana. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes that can jeopardize their benefits or even lead to the termination of their employment. In this blog post, we’ll explore some common missteps that injured workers make and provide tips on how to avoid them. Whether you’re currently on workers’ comp or know someone who is, this post will help you navigate the process and protect your rights.

1. Don’t assume that your employer will do the right thing by reporting the workers’ compensation claim to their insurance company. If you’re injured on the job, and more than a week goes by without the claim being reported, contact a lawyer immediately.
2. Don’t wait too long to seek treatment. Insurance adjusters tend to look suspiciously at injured workers who wait weeks, if not more, to seek medical attention.
3. Don’t skip doctor’s appointments. If you’re receiving workers’ compensation benefits and skip routine appointments or therapy, your benefits may be suspended for failing to comply with treatment.
4. Don’t lie or exaggerate the truth. The Workers’ Compensation Act has a provision for fraud. If a Judge finds that you have committed fraud, your workers’ compensation claim is effectively over, and you may even owe money to the insurance company.
5. Don’t refuse modified duty work within your medical capabilities. If you’re offered modified duty work or a desk job that your doctor approves, the failure to accept that work could jeopardize your ability to receive further indemnity benefits in the future.
6. Don’t go to Court without a lawyer. While Louisiana workers’ compensation is an administrative system, we are trial lawyers, and yes, we go to trial on workers’ compensation claims.
7. Don’t settle your claim without a lawyer. While you can settle your claim without the assistance of a competent Louisiana workers’ compensation attorney, you are hurting yourself and jeopardizing the value of your claim by not hiring a lawyer.

If you have questions about a new or existing workers’ comp claim and would like to speak to Chase about it, please give us a call or send a message to set up a free case consultation.