Attorneys
Last Updated: 12/21/2023
If you’re applying for workers’ compensation in Iowa, here are four things that you should never do:1
1. Forget to Notify Your Employer
Under Iowa workers’ compensation law section 85.23, you only have 90 days to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. If you have been injured on-the-job and want to apply for benefits, don’t forget this 90-day rule. If you don’t notify your employer in time, then you forfeit your right to benefits.
2. Exaggerate the Extent of Your Injuries
It can be tempting to exaggerate the extent of your injuries, especially if you’re worried about not getting your full benefit amount or having your claim denied. However, exaggerating the extent of your injuries is one of the worst things that you can do. A medical examiner may doubt your authenticity when talking about pain or disability and may make an incorrect assessment as such.
3. Accept a Medical Opinion You Don’t Agree With
Your employer has the right to choose the medical provider who will oversee and treat you for your injuries. However, it’s possible that you won’t be satisfied or in agreement with a medical opinion or medical treatment that you receive. If this is the case, make sure you take action by notifying your employer. Often, disputes can be worked out simply by having a conversation.
If the dispute cannot be resolved, you have the right to initiate a contested case. While contesting a case can be a bit of a headache, receiving medical care that you don’t agree with -- or getting a medical opinion that negatively affects your compensation amount -- may be worse.
4. Settle for a Lower Amount than You Think You’re Entitled to
As an injured worker, you’re entitled to payment for the total cost of your medical expenses and medical treatment, and disability payments if you have to miss work. Types of disability benefits include temporary total, temporary partial, healing period, permanent partial, permanent total, secondary injury fund, and vocational rehabilitation benefits. If you think that you’re entitled to a benefit amount that you’ve been denied, you don’t have to settle. Instead, you can hire an attorney who can help you appeal your workers’ compensation claim.
Take Action to Get Your Full Benefit Amount
When applying for workers’ compensation, make sure you don’t miss the filing deadline; never exaggerate the extent of your injuries; don’t accept a medical opinion you don’t agree with; and don’t say yes to a settlement amount that doesn’t fully pay for your damages. To learn how an attorney can help you get your full compensation amount, call the attorneys at Walker, Billingsley & Bair today. You can reach us at (888) 435-9886 now or contact us online.
