According to a report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014, a total of 78 work fatalities occurred in New York City. Results from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) program show that in 2014, a preliminary total of 4,679 fatal work injuries was recorded in the United States. According to OSHA, one in five worker deaths occurred at a construction site. The leading cause of worker deaths on construction sites were falls or falling. If you have been injured in the workplace or have been diagnosed recently for an occupational injury or illness, your actions during the first few days will have an effect on the rest of your claim. Using your time wisely is important at this point as it can make or break your chances of recovering the compensation you require to provide for your family. Here is a look at some of the common mistakes you should avoid when you report a work-related injury or illness:
Failing to report the incident
Many workers are reluctant to report an injury or illness related to work with their supervisor. It could be due to embarrassment or concern that they may lose their job. They may also think that the injury is a not a serious one and that they can handle the pain. However, keeping a work-related injury a secret can come back to haunt you, especially if the injury does not improve. Additionally, there is a strict time limit for reporting injuries and filing a claim, so it is a much wiser move to report your injury as soon as possible to improve your chances of getting benefits.
Not getting medical attention promptly
Seeing a doctor quickly after getting injured is important, especially since the details of how it took place are still fresh in your mind. Any potential skepticism over how and when it happened can be avoided. If you neglected to get medical help right away, you will have a hard time convincing the Workers’ Compensation Commission and insurance adjusters that your injury is serious. Inform your doctor of all your symptoms, including if your injury is changing or getting worse. Make sure not to leave out any information regarding past injuries to the same area or any pre-existing health conditions. Keep your medical records properly and follow all advice for treatment and follow-up appointments with your doctor.
Giving a false account
Unfortunately, some people believe that embellishing their symptoms or giving a false account of the circumstances that led to the injury will make their claim stronger. This will not work. Insurance companies anticipate lies and due to this, they work hard to discredit or to disprove claimants. It is likely that you will need to see one of their own doctors for a second examination. He or she will be looking for discrepancies between what you say versus what they observe. A private investigator may also be hired to record your activities and make sure that everything is consistent with what you told your doctor. Unfortunately, even the most valid claims can be damaged by these tactics used by insurance companies. That is why seeking the help of a reputable workers’ compensation lawyer is important. Your attorney will help get you the benefits to which you are entitled.
Waiting to seek legal help
When you have been injured on the job, plenty of advice will come from everyone around you. Family, friends, coworkers, and your boss are likely to tell you what they think is the best way to proceed with your claim. However, your individual case has unique aspects that even others who have been through the process cannot comprehend. Only a workers’ compensation lawyer will know how to handle your workers’ compensation claim to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of benefits. The best representation is early representation. Do not wait for your claim to be denied before seeking help. If you are injured in the workplace in New York, make sure that you get your workers’ compensation claim handled by a fantastic NY firm like Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law who can be reached at 212-344-1000. The first meeting is free. We have won millions of dollars for past clients – you too can be on this storied and winning list. Give us a call!
