Handling a Claim: What to do if an Employee is Hurt on the Job

When an employee is injured at work, there are certain procedures that need to be followed in order to proceed smoothly through the claims process. It’s important that as the employer you abide by the rules of the book when handling a claim. Knowing exactly what to do should one of your employees get hurt on the job will ensure that you’re leaving nothing to chance and that you’re aware of what needs to change to prevent it from happening again.

File a Report

First and foremost, it’s important that you give the employee proper medical attention and ensure that they’re taken care of. After this is done, it’s time to think about your obligations and protocol as the employer. Most of the time, you’ll be required to file a First Report of Injury or Illness. After you fill out the report, immediately send a copy to your insurance agent. You always want to keep them in the loop during the claims process.

Provide Claim Forms to Injured Employees

In most cases, employers must provide the injured employee with a workers’ compensation claim form within 24 hours after a notice of injury. In addition to a workers’ compensation form, you’re required to send the injured employee written information about their rights under the workers’ compensation system including details about available benefits and how to file a claim.

Report the Claim to Your Insurance Agency

Make sure that you’re always following through with paperwork, and effectively communicating with your insurance provider. Claims can get hairy, so bear with us when we ask for all sorts of documentation and files. Timely assistance and organized files are the best way to make sure that everyone is on the same page, and the claim goes through with no problems.

Stay on Top of the Claim

Once a claim is filed, it can take up to 90 days for the administrator to accept or deny the claim. While the process is sometimes lengthy, it’s important to make sure that you stay on top of the employee’s claim paperwork, workers’ compensation, and health progression reports.

The best way to handle a work-related injury is to do your best to prevent them from occurring in the first place. If you’re not careful, your workers’ compensation costs could cause a major setback to your business. At Snellings Walters, we care about helping you cover all areas of your business. Contact us here to learn more about claims management or to discuss what insurance coverages your employees need today.