Almost every employer in Massachusetts must provide workers’ compensation benefits. The program provides free medical care for work-related illnesses and injuries, a partial wage if you cannot do your job during your recovery, and disability benefits if the injury causes permanent impairment.
There are numerous rules and procedures you must follow to claim your benefits. Knowing what to do after a workplace accident in Springfield can make the claims process a lot easier. You are entitled to legal assistance, so contact our workers’ compensation attorneys at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. if you need help with your claim.
When you get hurt at your workplace in Springfield, you must report the incident to your employer as quickly as possible. Ideally, you report it to your supervisor immediately. If the circumstances do not allow an immediate report, inform them or the Human Resources department at the first opportunity.
An oral report of the accident is acceptable, but it is wise to follow up by email or letter and keep a copy. If there is a problem with your workers’ compensation claim, you may need proof that you notified the employer of your injury in a timely manner. Your employer may ask you to fill out an incident report, and if so, keep a copy for yourself.
If you develop a work-related illness or health condition, workers’ compensation should cover you. Inform the employer of your diagnosis as soon as you receive it. Work-related illness claims can be complicated, so you should also contact our attorneys for advice right away.
One of the most valuable benefits you receive through the workers’ compensation program is free medical care. However, you can endanger these benefits if you do not follow the rules.
You must seek an initial medical evaluation from an employer-approved physician as quickly as possible after the workplace accident in Springfield. In an emergency situation, treatment at the nearest hospital emergency department or urgent care center is allowed. You still must see an approved physician for an evaluation once the emergency is managed.
Although an approved doctor must conduct the initial examination for your workers’ compensation claim, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 152 § 30 allows you to choose the physician who provides ongoing treatment. They must accept workers’ compensation insurance and be qualified to treat your condition. Our attorneys can provide suggestions about qualified physicians in your area who treat injured workers.
When your treating physician gives instructions about managing your injury or illness after a workplace accident in Springfield, you must strictly adhere to their recommendations. Take prescribed medication as ordered, show up for physical therapy appointments, and rest when your physician advises it. Follow their instructions to the letter.
Non-compliance with medical advice can lead to the denial of your claim. You then would have to get medical care through your health insurance and be responsible for co-pays and deductibles. You would also lose the right to permanent disability benefits for that injury.
If you are unhappy with your physician’s advice, you can change providers, although you may need the insurer’s permission in some cases. If the insurer denies your claim, you can appeal the denial. Contact an attorney for help in either of these scenarios.
Knowing what to do after a workplace accident in Springfield is essential to preserve your rights to workers’ compensation benefits. Contact the experienced attorneys at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. for help with any aspect of the process.
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