Workers' Compensation Will Rely on Documentation

What most individuals aren’t aware of is that the documents they are able to present at court can either make or break their workers compensation claim. Thus, the importance of documentation for any sort of workers' compensation claim can never be understated.

Verifying the Facts

One of the most important reasons to be sure you proper documentation of everything is to verify the facts. It's too easy for someone to 'claim' something happened while at work or on the clock, so companies and courts require a large about of proof in the form of documentation.

Recently, areas like Newton, Massachusetts, have come under fire for possible workers' compensation fraud. By ensuring your case is fully documented from beginning to end, you can avoid the hassle of any fraud accusations.

Burden of Proof

When you apply for workers' compensation, the burden of proof is on you, the plaintiff. This means, you must prove that you meet the criteria under Massachusetts' state law regarding workers' compensation.

Documentation should begin with a written letter to your employer concerning the incident and including key details, dates, and times. It's important that this letter and form be submitted quickly, so seeking counsel or advice as soon as an accident occurs is highly recommended. From then on, you must collect important documents such as doctor and medical papers, all responses from your employer, and any medical evidence supporting your claim.

Restoring Your Life: Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Long-Term Disability

If you suffer from chronic injuries or a serious health ailment, your condition can become a major source of frustration. You may even be forced to take an extended amount of time off from work. Here are some key mistakes to avoid when seeking long-term disability benefits.

Failing to Get Consistent Medical Treatment

When applying for long-term disability, it is critical that you have a documented medical history. Try to avoid missing any scheduled appointments with your doctor. Your medical records play a major role in your ability to get fairly compensated.

Not Hiring a Lawyer

Long-term disability cases can become very complicated. The various laws and regulations can be overwhelming for the average person. If you don’t have any formal training in the legal field, the best approach is to hire a seasoned lawyer. Not only will you have a greater chance of winning your claim, but you can also look forward to experiencing a lower level of stress.

Missing Important Paperwork

Don’t make the mistake of losing any important paperwork related to your case. If needed, purchase a fire-proof safe to keep the documents secure.

Waiting to Appeal

Even if you are denied an insurance claim, you still have the ability to make an appeal. Your lawyer could uncover mistakes that were made by the insurance company. However, it is essential that you always file an appeal before the deadline ends.

Dealing With a Long-Term Disability Claim Denial

You purchase long-term disability insurance for the confidence that you will be taken care of if you are severely ill or injured. To then subsequently have your claim denied can be devastating. Even if you were injured and filed a successful civil lawsuit, the amount of compensation you were granted may not have been enough to support you and your family as well as cover any medical expenses. Workers' compensation is also unlikely to be sufficient. 

There are a number of reasons a long-term disability claim might be denied. The insurer may claim that medical records were insufficient or that you did not visit a physician regularly enough. There have been some cases in which insurance companies denied a claim based on video surveillance the company said refuted the person's injury or illness. A doctor's statement may be required. In some cases, a person may be denied because they or their medical providers have inadvertently filled out confusing paperwork incorrectly. However, it might be possible to deal with any of these objections. An attorney may be able to assist you in appealing such a denial. 

Time is also of the essence both in the initial filing and in the appeal. Time limits, processes and requirements may not be entirely clear, and this is another reason a person struggling to get long-term disability in Massachusetts may want to consult an attorney about the best approach and what type of documentation may be required.