Common Reasons for Missing Workers’ Compensation Deadline

When it comes to filing a workers’ compensation claim, most states have deadlines that you need to file a claim by. If you don’t, your claim may be denied. Unfortunately, some people choose not to file a claim for the following reasons: 

The Injury Isn’t Serious

Injuries are not always serious right away. You may slip and fall and feel sore for a few days following, but not recognize that there is a serious underlying problem. Some people discover later that their injury was actually serious. This might happen if the injury gets worse over time, or if you thought it was going to clear up faster. Even if you don’t think that your injury is serious, seek medical attention. You need to keep a record of the injury in case it does become something that changes your life in any way.

The Claim Isn’t Eligible

Too many employees buy into the idea that their claim is ineligible before they find out for sure. Workers’ compensation laws are complicated! It may not be as black and white as you think. If you’re hurt on a lunch break or business trip, for example, you may still be qualified for benefits. You are not ineligible for a claim just because your insurer denies it initially, or because you don’t think you would qualify for a claim.

The Deadline Has Passed

Don’t be a part of the group that has to say that their deadline passed. Every state has its own deadlines. One state might have a 30-day deadline, while another has a 90-day deadline. In some states, there may be no specific deadline at all. Instead, the state may state that you have to report the injury as soon as it’s practical. This means that if you don’t initially think that your injury is serious but discover that it is later, you can still file a claim. Even if the deadline has passed, it does not necessarily mean that you are ineligible. In fact, there are some circumstances where you can still report. If your employer was aware of the injury, you may still qualify. If your employer never posted the workers’ compensation rules, you may still qualify.

When it comes to workers’ compensation, too many people make assumptions that stop them from reporting. They believe that they shouldn’t make a claim and hence miss the deadline. Do not let yourself miss the deadline. Consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer, like a workers compensation lawyer in Memphis, TN, to find out if you’re eligible to file. 

Thanks to Darrell Castle and Associates, PLLC for their insight into filing for workers’ compensation.