When you are injured on the job, you are entitled to workers’ compensation, even if you played a role in your accident. With very few exceptions, workers’ compensation provides benefits to all employees who become injured while performing work-related duties.
The first step in starting a workers’ comp claim is informing your employer. This should be done in writing, in the form of a formal incident report, and sent by certified mail whenever possible. This helps avoid the question of whether or not your claim was received.
Choosing Your Doctor
After your injury has been reported, you will need to see a doctor in order to obtain a diagnosis. In the state of Illinois, you are able to choose this doctor. In the state of Missouri, your employer will choose this doctor for you. In both states, you are able to see the approved doctor of your choosing after your initial diagnosis.
Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim
Once you have obtained a diagnosis and know more about the severity of your injury, you can file a claim. In the state of Missouri, this is done through the Department of Labor & Industrial Relations. In Illinois, claims are filed through the Industrial Commission.
After your claim has been filed, it will undergo review. After review, it will be approved or denied based on factors determined by the governing body. If your claim is approved, no further action is needed. If your claim is denied, you will have the option to appeal.
Denied Claims
Workers’ compensation claims may be denied for a variety of reasons. You can always appeal a denial. In fact, studies have found that 67% of denied claims that are appealed are eventually approved.
Appealing may require a trial. It is a good idea to speak with an attorney before you head into these more complex negotiations.
Contact Us for Help
Brown & Brown can help you fill out your workers’ comp claim completely, assisting in preventing a denial. We can also assist with appeals in cases where a claim has hit a snag. Call 314-333-3333 or 618-888-8888 to schedule a free consultation and learn more.
