You’ve been injured at work or in an accident, and now you’re facing mounting medical bills and lost wages. Insurance companies often pressure you to accept quick settlements that don’t fully cover your losses. Before you sign anything, talk to a workers’ comp attorney about these four important strategies for maximizing your compensation.
1. Document Everything from Day One
Documentation is your strongest ally in any workers’ comp injury claim. Too many people damage their cases by failing to keep thorough records. The strongest claims include:
- Detailed accident reports and witness statements
- Photos of injuries and accident scenes
- Medical records and treatment plans
- Work restrictions from your doctor
- Correspondence with insurance companies
- Records of missed work and lost wages
- Daily pain and symptom journals
2. Follow Your Medical Treatment Plan
Skipping doctor appointments or ignoring medical advice can severely impact your compensation. Insurance companies look for any reason to reduce your payout, and gaps in medical treatment give them ammunition. Make sure you:
- Attend all scheduled appointments
- Follow prescribed treatments
- Report new symptoms promptly
- Keep all therapy appointments
- Request written work restrictions
- Save all medical bills and records
3. Watch What You Say and Share
Insurance adjusters are trained to find ways to minimize your claim, including reframing the situation to fit their narrative. That means everything you say or post online can be used against you. Protect your claim by:
- Limiting discussions about your case
- Avoiding social media posts
- Never giving recorded statements without legal counsel
- Not accepting blame or apologizing
- Directing all insurance inquiries to your attorney
- Being consistent in describing your accident and injuries
4. Don’t Rush to Settle
Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Many injuries have long-term consequences that aren’t immediately apparent. Wait until you:
- Reach maximum medical improvement
- Understand future medical needs
- Know if you can return to work
- Have documentation of all losses
- Consult with medical experts about long-term impacts
Protect Your Right to Full Compensation
The Law Offices of Tim Misny knows how to build strong injury claims and negotiate maximum settlements. Don’t let insurance companies pressure you into accepting less than you deserve.
Call my office at (877) 614-9524 for a free case evaluation. When insurance companies try to shortchange your injury claim, I’ll Make Them Pay!®