If you get injured on the job in Indiana, do you know what rules you have to follow to make sure that you retain your eligibility to workers’ compensation benefits?
Probably not. Most people aren’t familiar with the rules because they don’t honestly expect to use them. When an accident strikes, however, they can get caught in some traps that could be easily avoided.
Here are some of the basics you need to remember about your entitlements following an injury at work:
1. You need to report your injury to your employer soon
If you don’t report an injury in a timely fashion (which is a maximum of 30 days in Indiana), you’ll be permanently barred from claiming compensation for that injury.
Generally speaking, it’s always wisest to notify your boss of an injury as soon as practical, rather than later. That can relieve any suspicion that you’re trying to tie an off-the-clock injury to the workplace just to claim benefits.
2. You have to see the company’s recommended physician
You may be confused, at first, to find this out, but you don’t get to see your own doctor for treatment.
For anything related to your work-related injury, you usually have to use a doctor that’s been selected by your employer (or your employer’s insurance company). You’ll generally be given a list of doctors or pain clinics that are “pre-approved,” and told to make a choice.
3. You may be entitled to both cash and medical benefits
You need to track all of your lost wages, medical expenses, prescription costs and other losses. You’re likely entitled to both medical coverage for your injury or illness and wage replacement benefits for your time off work.
The process of getting what you are due through workers’ compensation can be tremendously complicated. You don’t have to battle red tape on your own, however. Find out more about your legal rights today.
