How to Handle a Worker's Compensation Claim:

The worst thing has happened. One of your employees has been injured on the job. Fortunately, you are covered by worker's compensation insurance, but you will now need to focus on handling your employee's claim. There are specific steps that you will need to take to ensure that the process goes smoothly, which we will detail below.

Information Collection

You will need to thoroughly document the accident for your insurance company. This will require the time, date, nature and intensive information on the injury that occurred. You will also need to have your employee's complete information, such as name, address, social security number, employment history, and other relevant information.

You will also need to keep a record of witness accounts, written statements from the employee as well as witnesses. If you think that you may be sued by the employee, now is the best time to contact an attorney who will be able to advise you on your best method of recourse.

Here are some recommendations for the time immediately following the accident up to one month after it has occurred that will assist you in handling your employee's claim.

1. Immediately report the accident to your insurance company. You will need to do this as quickly as possible, normally within the same day the accident has occurred, or the following day. Your swiftness will make the process easier.

2. Inform your employee and their family members on the claim procedures. This is a wonderful time to let your employee know that you are committed to their safety and handling this problem. Take this time to instruct you employee on what they will be required to do and be prepared to answer any questions. If you do not know the answer, you can go to your insurance company representative for more information. This will also need to be done immediately following the accident.

3. During the first week following the accident, you will need to begin the coordination of the payments for your employee's initial benefits, as well as discuss the diagnosis and plan of treatment with your employee's physician. At this phase, your employee's doctor should be able to determine if any rehabilitation will be necessary. You should also check in with your injured employee and/or their family to see how they are doing and if they are having any problems with their end of the claim.

4. After one month has elapsed and your employee still is not well enough to return, it is important to keep up the lines of communication. Try sending a card, calling them personally and if possible, visit them to see how they are doing. You will be able to discuss their current condition in person, and begin to formulate a return-to-work plan with your employee at this time.

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