Almost every worker in Wisconsin enjoys the benefits of workers’ compensation insurance if they get hurt or sick on the job. However, many people are unfamiliar with the steps necessary to file a claim. You should speak to an attorney who focuses on workers’ comp claims if you have questions or encounter roadblocks to receiving benefits.
Steps for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim
Hurt on the job? Here is an overview of the suggested steps you should take:
- Report Your Injury — The first step in filing a workers’ compensation claim is to report your injury to your employer. You should do this immediately or as soon as you become aware of your injury. In Wisconsin, you have up to 30 days to report an injury, but it’s best to do it as soon as possible. Document your injury in writing and keep a copy for your records.
- Get Medical Attention — For life-threatening injuries, call 911 and let trained emergency medics transport you. Go to a walk-in clinic or your family doctor for less severe injuries. Tell them you have a work-related injury and save all documentation, test results, and bills.
- Follow Up on Your Claim — Your employer is responsible for notifying their insurance company to start your workers’ compensation claim. The insurance carrier should report your illness or injury to the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Division (WWCD. Follow up with your employer to be sure they advised the insurer and your claim was reported to the WWCD.
- Follow Doctor’s Orders — Make sure you complete your course of treatment from your healthcare provider, including medication, rehabilitation, therapy, and follow-up visits. Failing to do so could jeopardize your health and your ability to collect workers’ comp benefits if you cannot work due to your injury.
Can You Sue Your Employer?
In Wisconsin, the workers’ compensation system is generally an “exclusive remedy,” which means it is the only legal option available for most employees against their employers regarding work-related injuries. However, there are a two exceptions: safety violation claims and unreasonable refusal to rehire claims and an experienced attorney like Lisa A Wiebusch will know how to handle these claims against the employer and maximize your recovery.
Role of a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Here are a few reasons why working with a Wisconsin workers’ compensation attorney is beneficial. A skilled lawyer can:
- See that you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to, including compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and money for permanent disability
- Protect your rights from an employer who fails to file your claim
- Appeal a denied claim at WWCD hearings or in court
Contact the Law Office of Lisa A. Wiebusch LLC
For over 30 years, attorney Lisa A. Wiebusch has helped injured Wisconsin workers obtain the benefits they need after a job-related injury or illness and aggressively fought for injured worker’s rights and also maximized the recovery allowable under the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Act. When recovering from an accident, injury, or illness, the last thing you need is to deal with an insurance company or an employer who tries to make it difficult for you to access benefits. Let a professional legal advocate fight for you while you focus on resting and recovering. Contact the Law Office of Lisa A. Wiebusch LLC today for a free consultation.
