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Koszdin Launches New Initiative to Empower Workers' Compensation Claimants in Los Angeles

Navigating the complex process of filing a workers’ compensation claim in Los Angeles can be daunting. Employees injured must understand the steps involved and the common pitfalls that can jeopardize their claims. To successfully secure the benefits due to you, it’s essential to avoid specific errors that could significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Here, They discuss critical mistakes to avoid and highlight how consulting with a specialized attorney, such as those at Koszdin, Fields & Sherry , can provide invaluable guidance. 1. Failing to Report the Injury Immediately One of the most critical steps in a workers’ compensation claim is reporting the injury to your employer as soon as possible. California law requires injured workers to report their injuries within 30 days. Delaying this notification can lead to denials as insurers might claim the injury is not work-related or question its severity. 2. Not Seeking Medical Treatment Promptly After sustaining an injury at work, immediate medical attention is crucial for your health and your claim. Medical records are the foundation of your workers’ comp case, documenting the injury’s extent and nature. A delay in treatment can be interpreted as an indication that the injury was not severe, which could undermine your claim. 3. Choosing the Wrong Doctor In Los Angeles, your employer may have a Medical Provider Network (MPN) that you are generally required to use for your treatment under workers’ compensation. Not adhering to this network can lead to complications in having your medical bills covered. However, understanding your rights, including situations where you might choose your doctor, is crucial and something a skilled workers’ compensation attorney in Los Angeles can advise you on. 4. Inadequate Documentation Accurate and detailed documentation is a pillar of a strong workers’ compensation claim. This includes everything from initial injury reports, medical records, and receipts to correspondence with your employer or the insurance company. Missing or inaccurate information can delay your claim or lead to outright denials. 5. Not Following Medical Advice Ignoring or not fully following the medical advice and prescribed treatment can weaken your claim. Insurers may argue that your failure to comply with treatment recommendations suggests that the injury is not severe or that you are not interested in recovering swiftly. 6. Filing the Claim Without Legal Assistance Workers' compensation laws and processes can be intricate and confusing. Filing a claim without the help of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can result in missed deadlines, underestimation of your claim’s value, or non-compliance with procedural requirements. Lawyers at firms like Koszdin, Fields & Sherry specialize in workers’ compensation claims and can navigate the complexities to ensure your rights are protected and maximized. 7. Misunderstanding Your Claim’s Value Many workers accept settlements that do not adequately cover their medical bills, lost wages, or rehabilitation costs. A workers’ compensation attorney can help evaluate your claim comprehensively, considering future medical needs and potential disabilities. 8. Not Disclosing Previous Injuries Failing to disclose any previous injuries or pre-existing conditions affecting the same body parts injured at work can give insurers a reason to challenge your claim. Transparency is vital, as medical history will be scrutinized during the claim process. Conclusion Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance your chances of a favorable outcome in a workers’ compensation claim in Los Angeles. Consider contacting a dedicated workers’ compensation attorney at Koszdin, Fields & Sherry for expert guidance and representation. Their expertise can help you navigate through the complexities of your claim, ensuring that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under the law. For more information, visit their website and take the first step towards safeguarding your rights and future. Contact Koszdin, Fields & Sherry If you’re dealing with a workers’ compensation issue and need clarification on the next steps, the attorneys at Koszdin, Fields & Sherry are ready to help. Visit their website to learn more about their services and how they can assist you with your Los Angeles workers’ compensation claim.