Suffering a workplace injury can turn your life upside down. Suddenly, you’re not just dealing with physical pain—you’re also facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and a complicated workers’ compensation process. What makes things worse? Employers and insurance companies often try to minimize or deny your rightful compensation.
But you don’t have to face this battle alone. With the right legal support, you can secure the settlement you deserve. At Arshakyan Law Firm, our Los Angeles workers' compensation attorneys understand how frustrating this process can be. We’re here to guide you, ensuring every step is taken to maximize your workers’ compensation claim.
The Reality of Workers’ Compensation Settlements
Workers’ compensation is designed to financially support employees injured on the job. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and, in some cases, long-term disability benefits. But the process rarely unfolds smoothly. Insurance companies often seek ways to deny claims or pay as little as possible. Employers may try to dispute the circumstances of your injury. These challenges can leave you feeling powerless at a time when you need support the most.
Timely and Accurate Reporting of Workplace Injuries
Reporting your injury to your employer is more than just a formality—it’s a critical step in protecting your rights. Delaying this step can give insurers an excuse to question your claim.
When you report your injury, be as detailed as possible. Describe what happened, where it occurred, and any immediate symptoms. If witnesses were present, include their names. This information creates a clear record that’s hard for employers or insurance companies to dispute.
Some employers may discourage you from filing a report, suggesting it could harm the company or that your injury isn’t serious enough. Don’t let this deter you. A workers' compensation attorney can ensure your report is filed correctly and that your employer doesn’t attempt to retaliate against you for asserting your rights.
Securing Proper Medical Documentation
Medical documentation is the foundation of your workers’ compensation claim. It proves the extent of your injury and its impact on your ability to work. Without solid medical evidence, insurers are more likely to dispute your case. After your injury, seek treatment immediately. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. Your medical records will show a care timeline, reinforcing your claim's validity.
Sometimes, employers may require you to see a doctor of their choosing. While you may have to comply, you can consult your doctor for a second opinion. If there’s a dispute about the severity of your injury, an attorney can guide you in obtaining an independent medical evaluation. This ensures that all aspects of your injury are adequately assessed.
Understanding the Full Value of Your Claim
Insurance companies often aim to pay as little as possible. They might offer a settlement that covers your immediate expenses but fails to account for long-term costs. Don’t accept a settlement without understanding the full value of your claim. Several factors determine how much your case is worth:
- The severity of your injury: Permanent or long-term injuries typically result in higher settlements.
- Lost wages: Your settlement should reflect not only current lost income but also any future earning capacity affected by your injury.
- Future medical expenses: If your injury requires ongoing treatment, those costs must be included.
Navigating Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, even if that means undervaluing or denying your claim. They might argue that your injury wasn’t work-related or claim you’re exaggerating its severity. Some companies even conduct surveillance to find evidence that contradicts your claim. For example, they may monitor your social media accounts or send investigators to observe your daily activities.
Having a workers’ compensation attorney is the best way to counter these strategies. Your lawyer will ensure that your claim is supported by strong evidence and will push back against unfair tactics. With an attorney on your side, you can focus on recovery while they fight to secure the settlement you deserve.
Avoiding Critical Mistakes in Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
The workers’ compensation process is full of potential pitfalls. Small mistakes can give insurers or employers the leverage they need to deny or reduce your settlement. Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Returning to work too soon: If you go back to work before you’re medically cleared, it could worsen your injury and weaken your claim.
- Failing to disclose prior injuries: Be upfront about any pre-existing conditions. Insurers may use this information to argue that your injury wasn’t work-related, but withholding it can hurt your credibility.
- Posting on social media: Even innocent updates can be misconstrued. For example, a photo of you smiling at a family gathering might be used to suggest your injury isn’t as serious as you claim.
Building a Strong Case Through Evidence
A strong workers’ compensation case is built on solid evidence. This includes:
- Medical records: These document your injury, treatment, and recovery timeline.
- Accident reports: These provide a detailed account of what happened.
- Witness statements: If coworkers saw the accident, their testimonies can reinforce your claim.
- Wage records: These show how much income you’ve lost due to your injury.
Our Los Angeles workers' compensation attorneys know how to effectively gather and present this evidence. They’ll organize the information to paint a clear and compelling picture of your case, leaving little room for insurers or employers to dispute your claim.
Protect Your Rights with a Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you’re facing mounting medical bills and lost wages after a workplace injury, the last thing you need is an employer or insurer working against you. Unfortunately, many injured workers face claim denials and undervalued settlements. You deserve better.
Don’t let insurers dictate your future. Call us today at 888-851-5005 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve.