Before getting workers’ compensation benefits, you must go through the claims process. It entails reporting your injury to your employer and filing a claim, among other important steps.
Therefore, it is important to understand how things work and, most importantly, the deadlines involved. It will ensure a smooth process and help protect your claim. Below are some crucial time limits you should observe after a workplace injury or work-related illness.
Notifying your employer
In Virginia, employees must report any work-related injury to their employer within 30 days of the incident. Remember to capture as much information as possible about your incident and keep copies of related correspondence.
Failure to report within this timeframe without a reasonable excuse may result in the denial of benefits, and it’s essential to notify your employer promptly.
Filing a claim
It is up to you to file a workers’ compensation claim, not your employer. On top of that, you must do so within two years, or your claim may be time-barred. In other words, you may lose the right to pursue benefits if you exceed the legal deadline, which is two years in Virginia.
The appeals process
While you can appeal a denied claim and have the decision overturned, the process is fraught with deadlines you must follow. Otherwise, you may lose the chance to contest the denial and get the much-needed benefits.
Increase your chances of a successful workers’ compensation claim
Seeking legal guidance can be instrumental in navigating the complex world of workers’ compensation, especially considering the significance of observing these and other deadlines. The necessary assistance can help guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that you meet all requirements in a timely manner.
