If you (or a loved one) suffered an injury at work in Fredericksburg, you should know your rights. The truth is most workers don’t understand the various aspects of the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act, and more often than not, they end up bearing losses following workplace mishaps. Among other things, you should consider hiring a Fredericksburg workers’ compensation lawyer so as to protect your interests. In this post, we are sharing the accurate facts that you need to know after such an unfortunate mishap.
Informing your employer is a must
While employers in Virginia are required to have workers’ compensation insurance for all workers, the latter must also adhere to their duties. Immediately after the injury and receiving medical care, you should inform your employer. The law sets a deadline of 30 days for notifying the employer, but as the injured worker, you must do so at the earliest. Make sure that you follow the due procedure to inform your supervisor.
You don’t have to prove fault
This is where workers’ compensation claims are different from personal injury claims. In the case of the latter, it is necessary to prove that the other party’s negligence or reckless behavior caused your injuries, which gives you the right to seek compensation. That’s not the case with workers’ compensation claims, as this is a no-fault system. Also, you cannot directly sue your employer for the accident. In some cases, the worker may have a valid third-party claim.
You are entitled to medical coverage and wage loss
Following an accident at work, you might have to stay home for weeks. The workers’ compensation system allows you to recover the cost of your medical care, including long-term treatment. You are also entitled to wage loss benefits, which are two-third of the average wage for the time that you are out of work. Talk to an attorney if you don’t understand the workers’ compensation benefits.
A rejection is not the end of the world
There are several reasons why the insurance company could deny your workers’ compensation claim, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have other options. You can appeal against the denial, and it makes sense to give a fair fight, for which your attorney will take appropriate steps.
If you are proactive after the injury and take measures to protect your workers’ compensation claim, you have less to worry about the financial situation.
