When you get hurt at work, you can receive benefits that cover medical bills and disability. However, some mistakes can affect your ability to claim workers’ compensation.
Avoid these pitfalls after a work-related injury or illness.
Delaying medical care
Do not wait to see a doctor after an accident at work. You should also seek care for unexplained medical symptoms. In Florida, you can go to your own health care provider after a work injury.
Some people do not go to the doctor because they cannot afford to pay. In this case, tell your doctor you suffered a workplace injury. He or she should bill you for the care you receive. You can submit these bills directly to your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider.
Waiting to report the injury
You must tell your employer about the incident or diagnosis right away. Florida requires employers to notify their workers’ compensation insurance provider within seven days of receiving an employee injury or illness report. If you wait longer than 30 days to tell your employer, you may become ineligible for benefits.
Failing to keep records
Save all your receipts when you get medical care after a work injury. Get a copy of your medical records and save all doctor and hospital bills as well as medication receipts. You should also keep track of your travel costs when going to and from medical appointments.
If you are not sure what to do after a workplace injury, talk to your company’s human resources department. You can also ask your direct supervisor about the next steps when you report the incident.