7 Common Mistakes Employers Should Avoid While Filing Workers’ Compensation

Every workplace has extensive safety measures in place. However, unfortunately, workplace accidents can happen due to negligence or other causes. That’s why understanding workers' compensation is crucial for both employers and employees. It can also help organizations take proactive measures to prevent future accidents.

Let’s dive deep into the most common mistakes employers make when filing workers' compensation.

Not Showing Empathy for the Injured Employee

At the workplace, it’s the responsibility of employers to make sure their employees are safe and protected. When an accident happens, showing concern and empathy for the injured employee should be the management’s priority. While the paperwork and protocols are important, the safety and well-being of the employees should come first.

Non-Compliance to State Specific Submission Requirements

Workers’ compensation is mandatory in some states and optional in others. Organizations should understand the laws in the state they are operating in. The U.S. Department of Labor’s State Workers’ Compensation Officials website has the names and addresses of the appropriate state workers’ compensation officials. Employers can use this data to learn more about the regulations in their state.

Not Getting a Full Report of the Accident

Employers need to properly document all workplace injuries and file the necessary reports with their workers’ compensation insurance provider. The management needs to talk to the employees who were present at the site of the incident to know what exactly happened. They can review the security tapes as well to get the full picture and document it. Failing to prepare a detailed report can affect the outcome of a workers’ compensation case.

Delaying the Claims Filing Process

This is one of the most common mistakes employers make. It is important to report any work-related injury or illness to the insurance carrier as soon as possible, even if it seems minor. The employer needs to give the employee’s social security number, payroll history, and other information to the workers’ compensation carrier within the state’s estimated filing period. This will help ensure that the claim is processed quickly and efficiently and that the employee receives the benefits they are entitled to.

Failing to Get Workers’ Compensation Coverage for New Employees

Every state has specific requirements for workers’ compensation coverage. Employers need to be familiar with them to ensure their employees are protected. Failing to get a new employee covered could make the company liable for their medical expenses, lost wages, and additional costs when an accident happens.

Missing to Provide Transitional Duties

If the injury isn’t severe and the employee is willing to work, employers can assign light, stress-free duties to the injured worker. This will reduce their stress, help them stay connected with the team, and keep them engaged during their recovery. A transitional work plan will also reduce the cost of claims for an employer.

Not Implementing an Effective Return-To-Work Program

An effective return-to-work program is essential to helping the employee ease back into their job. It gives them financial security, reduces employee turnover, and increases the efficiency of the workplace.

By avoiding these mistakes, employers can ensure that workers' compensation claims are processed quickly and that employees receive the benefits they are entitled to. Keep an eye on our blogs for more information about workers’ compensation.