Braintree, MA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
When workers in Braintree are injured while on the job, it can be life-altering. Apart from dealing with the pain and discomfort caused by their injury, they are worried about medical expenses and lost income during their recovery.
Fortunately, a solution is available in the form of Workers’ Compensation benefits, designed to help injured workers get the financial support they need during this time. To receive these benefits, certain steps must be taken. While this might seem overwhelming, our team is here to help you navigate it with ease. We will walk you through all the paperwork, deadlines, and requirements needed to file a successful claim. Additionally, we can help you calculate the amount of benefits you can receive so you can plan your finances accordingly.
For a free case analysis with our Workers’ Compensation lawyers, contact the Law Office of John J. Sheehan today at (617) 925-6407.
What to Do Before Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Braintree, MA
Before you initiate a Workers’ Compensation claim, it is important to understand what steps to take to ensure your rights are protected. The Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Act mandates most employers in the state to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance to cover employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses. This insurance provides benefits such as medical expenses, temporary or permanent disability payments, and vocational rehabilitation.
The best way to avoid having your claim denied or your benefits delayed is to follow the guide below. Our Workers’ Compensation attorneys know which strategies are effective at getting you the compensation you need. Below, you will find directions on what to do before filing your Workers’ Compensation claim in Braintree:
Get Immediate Medical Attention
The first and most crucial step is to seek immediate medical attention. This is not only important for your health but also for documenting the injury or illness related to your claim. Your medical report will serve as the primary evidence in your Workers’ Compensation claim.
When you visit a healthcare professional, make sure to provide them with a detailed account of how the injury or illness occurred, the time and date of the incident, and any symptoms you are experiencing. This information will help your healthcare provider to diagnose your condition accurately and provide the appropriate treatment.
It is also essential to keep a record of all medical expenses related to your injury or illness, including hospital bills, medication costs, and rehabilitation expenses. This information will be required when making a claim for benefits later. By taking prompt action and seeking medical attention immediately after your workplace injury, you can receive the care you need and ensure your case starts off on the right foot.
Report Your Injury to Your Employer
Either before or after you have received the necessary medical care, you should report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. In fact, it is best to do so within 24 hours of the incident if possible. If you wait too long, you could risk losing your right to Workers’ Compensation benefits.
When you report the incident, be sure to provide your employer with a detailed account of what happened. Include information about how the incident occurred, when it happened, and where it took place. This will help your employer understand the circumstances surrounding the incident when they file their report for your claim.
Remember, failure to report the incident to your employer within the stipulated timeframe, which is usually 30 days after the accident, could result in a denial of your Workers’ Compensation claim.
Document Your Injuries and Gather Evidence
Before filing your claim, you will want to have comprehensive documentation to support your case. This means taking detailed photographs of the accident scene, including any relevant landmarks or signage, as well as the damage to any vehicles or property involved. It also involves keeping a thorough record of all your medical appointments and treatments, as well as saving all medical bills and receipts.
In addition to these records, it is a good idea to maintain a personal injury journal. This journal should document your experiences following the accident, including any pain or discomfort you experience, any limitations on your ability to work or engage in other activities, and any emotional distress resulting from the incident.
If there were any witnesses to the accident, it is crucial to gather their statements as soon as possible. These statements can serve as valuable evidence in support of your claim and can help to establish the facts of the case. Be sure to include the names and contact information of any witnesses, as well as a detailed description of what they saw or heard at the time of the accident.
Consult with Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Filing a Workers’ Compensation claim can be a complicated task. There are various legal intricacies that need to be taken into account, and it can be challenging to navigate the system without legal assistance.
However, seeking the help of our experienced team can make a significant difference in your case. We can prepare your claim so that all paperwork is completed correctly, submitted on time, and appropriate evidence is gathered. We take pride in fighting for the maximum possible benefits, including lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs.
What to Do After Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Braintree, MA
Once you have filed your Workers’ Compensation claim, the waiting period begins. During this time, your employer’s insurance company will review your claim. They might request additional information or medical examinations to determine the validity of your claim. It is essential to cooperate fully during this process while also keeping a record of all communications and documentation in case you need to fight their decision.
In some cases, the insurance company might dispute your claim. If your claim is contested, it will proceed to a conciliation, an informal meeting with a conciliator from the Department of Industrial Accidents, you, your attorney, and the insurer. The conciliator will attempt to help both parties reach a voluntary agreement before moving to an official appeal. If no agreement is reached, your claim might proceed to a more formal hearing before an administrative law judge.
If your case proceeds to a hearing, preparation is key. Review your case thoroughly and practice your testimony with our team so that you are fully prepared for what might be asked. Remember, the goal is to convince the judge of the validity and severity of your work-related injury.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. In Braintree, this involves filing an appeal within 30 days of the final decision. If your claim is approved, though, you should start receiving your benefits within a few weeks.
Our Braintree, MA Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Are Here to Help Protect Your Rights
Call the Law Office of John J. Sheehan at (617) 925-6407 for a free review of your case with our Workers’ Compensation attorneys.
