English 
Spanish As an injured worker, you may be entitled to seek workers’ compensation benefits. Applying for and receiving benefits is a complicated process, and your actions after an injury could impede your ability to receive medical care and monthly wage loss benefits.
If a workers’ comp lawyer represents you, they will help you at every stage of the application process and explain the dos and don’ts after a work injury.
Five Important Things You Should NOT Do After Being Hurt at Work
If you get hurt at work, a workers’ comp lawyer in your area can help. While you focus on recovering and getting back to work, they can focus on the nuances and details of the application process.
They can help you understand these five important things you should not do:
Do NOT Miss Important Reporting, Notification, or Filing Deadlines
One of the most important dos and don’ts after a work injury is complying with the deadlines that affect your case. According to the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), you are required to notify your employer that you were injured within 30 days.
There are also deadlines that could affect how much time you have to initiate medical care, file your initial application, and file an appeal if it is denied.
If even one deadline is missed, you could inadvertently forfeit your right to the medical care and wage loss benefits you might otherwise have received. If you have a workers’ compensation lawyer on your side, they will clarify and help you comply with all applicable deadlines.
Do NOT Submit an Incomplete or Inaccurate Application After a Workplace Injury
A workers’ compensation application is a multi-page document that will require a plethora of supporting documents, such as:
- Wage statements
- Various official forms
- The accident investigation report
- Pharmacy forms
- Prescription medications
This list is not exhaustive, and submitting an incomplete application could cause your application to be rejected. Then, you’d have to deal with the back and forth between you and the workers’ compensation board until it is complete and accurate.
If you suffered a work injury, your lawyer will collect as much medical evidence as possible. In addition to medical records, they might request your written statement about the physical toll your injury has taken and the limitations it imposes on your ability to work.
Do NOT Post About Your Work Injury on Social Media Platforms
Social media has become a part of everyday life, so much so that many people tend to overshare. Avoid doing so while your claim is pending. Sharing too much information on social media, such as photos, remarks, and responses, can hinder your case. Examples of what to avoid posting include:
- Descriptions of your workplace accident
- Photos and videos of your injuries and recovery
- Comments about your treatment protocol
- Statements that assign fault or blame
If you claim an injury but post photos and descriptions of activities, vacations, and parties, the workers’ compensation board can discredit your claim. You should also avoid accepting new and unknown friend requests.
Do NOT Accept a Denied Application Without a Fight
If your initial application for benefits is denied, you can file an appeal, but you do not have to on your own. Instead, a lawyer can take the reins and:
- Read and review your letter of denial
- Collect, organize, and present additional supporting evidence
- Consult medical experts and specialists
In short, your lawyer can help you resubmit your application with additional proof and will represent you at any hearings or appearances. If you or a supporting witness will have to testify, your lawyer can help you prepare.
Do NOT Apply for Benefits Without Consulting a Workers’ Comp Attorney
The sooner you get legal guidance and support after being injured at work, the better. A lawyer can review your application, clear up any administrative errors or typos, and make the application process go more smoothly.
Don’t worry about whether you can afford to hire an attorney, because you can. Most personal injury firms that take workers’ compensation cases do so on a contingency-fee basis. In other words, they don’t require any upfront or out-of-pocket costs to start your case. They only receive their payment if and when they recover benefits for you.
Get Help Applying for Workers’ Compensation Benefits From Our Firm Today
If you or a loved one was hurt at work, you can qualify for workers’ compensation. When you apply, knowing what you should do is as important as knowing what not to do after a work injury.
Find out how our workers’ comp attorney can help you streamline the application process and recover the benefits you need. Contact one of our KJT Law Group team members by calling (818) 507-8525 for a free case review today.
