Workplace Injuries: Proving It's a New Injury

Filing a Worker’s Compensation claim after sustaining workplace injuries or illnesses is a common procedure. Some cases may be open and shut, making it very easy for you to get your benefits while out of work recovering, and you simply go back to work when healed. However, some cases are not so easy to handle and more information from both sides is necessary to make a decision about your benefits.

Those making a decision on your case often ask for proof the workplace injuries you sustained were directly caused by your working conditions, following your job description, or even another coworker not doing their job correctly. Whatever the reason for your workplace injuries, you may need to assemble, prepare, and show your evidence at a hearing.

But how?

Testimony of a Medical Professional

The testimony of any and all medical professionals that are treating your workplace injuries can go a long way. These medical professionals can show the extent of your injuries and what is being done to treat them, but also the cause (or most likely cause). This is one reason why seeking medical care immediately following workplace injuries is so important. You need to have the injuries noted and evaluated as soon as possible.

Testimony of a Witness

A witness can come in several ways: they may be a coworker who saw the accident, a coworker who has sustained the same workplace injuries or illnesses, or even a member of the public. A public witness may have seen you fall inside a store or watch a piece of equipment malfunction when being used outside. Your Worker’s Comp claim will usually ask if there were witnesses to the injury that occurred, so be diligent about getting names and numbers of all potential witnesses before leaving the scene. If you aren’t able to yourself, you may want to have a coworker do it while you are seeking medical help.

A Worker’s Comp Lawyer

Assembling a case for Worker’s Comp due to workplace injuries not only takes time, but it can also be a pain, literally. While you are recovering from your injuries or illnesses caused by your place of employment, a Worker’s Comp lawyer can help gather the medical records and bring witnesses to testify on your behalf. Having a lawyer help you present your evidence, or even file an appeal for you, may help you get the Worker’s Comp benefits you deserve.

The Koszdin Law Office in Van Nuys, California, can help you present a solid case about your workplace injuries caused by the actions, or inactions, of supervisory personnel or even coworkers. If you need to prove that your injuries were a direct result of your employment, let an experienced Worker’s Comp lawyer handle your case.