What You Should Know About Filing for Workers’ Compensation

If you’re injured on the job in Arizona, workers’ compensation may cover your medical expenses. Employers are legally required to have workers’ compensation insurance, but it’s up to you to file a claim.

Report your injury to your employer within seven days to initiate the claims process. Missing this deadline could result in losing your workers’ compensation benefits and delay your recovery support.

Understanding what you should know about filing for workers‘ compensation is vital. If you need help, a Phoenix workers’ compensation lawyer can offer the guidance you need to secure your benefits.

Steps to Take if You’ve Been Injured at Work

If you’re injured or fall ill due to your job, it’s important to act promptly. After receiving any necessary emergency medical treatment, your next step is to report the injury to your employer. Failing to inform your employer immediately can risk your claim.

When reporting your injury, be sure to provide these details:

• The time, date, and location of the incident
• How the injury occurred
• The extent and symptoms of your injury

For further help, consulting a Phoenix personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.

For a free legal consultation, call 866-499-8989

How do You File for Workers’ Compensation?

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Arizona requires following several key steps to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the benefits you need. These steps include:

Notify Your Employer

If you’re injured on the job, immediately inform your employer. They are required to provide you with details about the workers’ compensation insurance carrier.

Seek Medical Attention

Get medical care as soon as possible after your workplace accident. Prioritizing your health is essential, and visiting a doctor promptly helps validate your injury claim. The doctor’s notes can also be imperative if you need to appeal a denied claim.

Complete the Necessary Forms

You must file your workers’ comp claim within one year from the injury date. Depending on your situation, you will need to complete one of these forms:

• Worker’s and physician’s report of injury: Obtain the worker’s and physician’s report from your doctor’s office. Fill out the “Worker’s Report” section, and your doctor will complete the “Physician’s Initial Report.”
• Worker’s report of injury: This form asks for details about your injury, including the date and the affected body part. Submit the completed form to the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA).

Understand Your Right to File a Lawsuit

Arizona’s workers’ compensation system is no-fault, meaning employees receive benefits regardless of the cause of the accident. However, you can sue your employer in cases of willful misconduct or if they lack workers’ comp insurance. 

If eligible, you may seek personal injury damages in addition to workers’ compensation benefits. Consulting a lawyer can help clarify your options and guide you through the legal process effectively.

Throughout the process, keep track of all deadlines, information requests, and meetings related to your claim. Missing a deadline or failing to complete the required forms can result in losing your benefits.

Should You Hire an Attorney to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Arizona workers’ comp attorneys can assist you in several important ways, providing valuable support and guidance:

Understand the Process

Understanding workers’ compensation can be stressful and confusing. Having an experienced Arizona workers’ comp lawyer by your side can help you understand each step.

They can simplify the process, answer your questions, and help you file a workers’ compensation claim, ensuring you receive the benefits you’re entitled to. With their support, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities.

Deal with Your Employer

Employers might try to intimidate or take advantage of injured workers. An attorney will stand up for your rights, protect your interests, and advocate for fair treatment throughout the entire claims process.

Negotiate with the Insurance Carrier

Insurance companies are less likely to hassle you when you have a skilled attorney representing you. Our team will fight for the benefits you need, making sure you receive support for lost wages and medical bills and that your workers’ compensation number is correctly processed. 

If necessary, we can also file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you at any hearings before an administrative law judge.

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Steps to Take if Your Claim Is Denied

When your Arizona workers’ compensation claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be challenging, but having a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney can make it much easier.

If you disagree with the decision made by your employer’s insurance provider, you have 90 days from receiving the notice to file a request for a hearing with the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA).

Having legal support can significantly improve your chances of a successful appeal and help you secure the benefits you need.

Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now

Eligibility for Disability, Unemployment, or Social Security Benefits While on Workers’ Compensation

Employees receiving workers’ compensation benefits are not automatically disqualified from disability, unemployment, or Social Security benefits. However, the amount received from other programs may be influenced by your workers’ comp benefits.

It’s best to contact your company’s benefits office to get detailed information on your eligibility for long-term disability and unemployment insurance benefits. They can provide specific guidance on how these benefits may interact with each other.

Talk to a Phoenix Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Understanding what you should know about filing for workers‘ compensation is essential for protecting your rights and securing the benefits you need. Working through the process on your own can be challenging, and having a skilled attorney by your side can make all the difference.

At Zanes Law, our experienced team has a 99% win rate, offering you the confidence and support necessary for a successful claim. Our attorneys are committed to helping you understand your options and fight for the benefits you deserve.

Contact Zanes Law today to learn how we can assist you in your workers’ compensation journey. Let us provide the guidance and representation you need to secure your rightful benefits.

Call or text 866-499-8989 or complete a
Free Case Evaluation form