Workers’
Compensation
Filing a Workers’ Compensation claim can be overwhelming
Let the compassionate and highly experienced attorneys at Zea Proukou help.
- Workers’ Comp laws provide protections and benefits for employees but not without challenges and defenses by the employers and insurance carriers
- Let us safeguard your rights, navigate any potential issues, and ensure you receive the support and compensation you are entitled to
Whether you need help filling out paperwork to report the accident or you’ve just been denied benefits and need to appeal your claim, contact Zea Proukou here.
WORKERS' COMP
WHAT TO EXPECT
Whether you need help filling out paperwork to report the accident or you’ve just been denied benefits and need to appeal your claim, contact Zea Proukou here.
1.Seek medical treatment:
You may find that many primary care doctors will no longer treat work-related injuries, leading you to seek initial treatment at emergency rooms or urgent care centers. It is crucial to consult a specialist in Workers' Comp injuries as soon as you can, as specialists are more equipped to handle the specific nature of workplace injuries and can provide targeted care and support tailored to your situation.
2.Fill out a C-3, Employee Claim Form:
Filing an accident report with your employer is NOT the same as initiating a Workers' Compensation claim. To safeguard your rights, it is essential to submit a C-3 Form to the Workers' Compensation Board, detailing your accident or occupational disease. When filling out this form, remember to list all potential injury areas, disclose any previous similar injuries, and mention any secondary employment or self-employment.
3.Continue to see your doctor(s) at least every 90 days:
Be sure your doctors record your degree of disability in every report. If you are less than totally (100%) disabled, your doctor should also note any work restrictions you have.
4.Look for work within your restrictions:
If your doctor assesses you as having a partial disability (less than 100%), under Workers' Compensation Law, you need to stay connected to the job market. If your current employer cannot provide work that fits within your restrictions, you are required to seek employment elsewhere or show that you're actively engaged in the labor market. This is a key part of ensuring compliance with Workers' Compensation regulations and maintaining eligibility for benefits.
5.Notify the insurance company if you return to work:
Performing any work or work-like activity that is not reported can constitute Workers’ Comp fraud. Fraud can result in having to pay back benefits received, a complete loss of future monetary benefits, and even criminal charges.
6.Get a permanency opinion:
About a year after your work injury or surgery (if applicable), you should be evaluated by your doctor for permanency. This is a special examination that requires the doctor to make a particular determination regarding maximum medical improvement and fill out a special form.
While we welcome you to contact us at Zea Proukou at any point in this process, it is encouraged that you have an attorney on your side helping from day one!
Call us today and speak directly with an attorney about your injury.