Work injuries can be devastating, leaving you with physical pain, lost wages, and mountains of medical bills. You’re not the only one in St. Louis who has suffered an injury at work.
Workers’ compensation payments are provided by Missouri law to aid in your financial recovery and get back on your feet. It might be difficult to understand the claims procedure, though.
In this article, we’ll walk you through each step to make sure you get paid everything you’re entitled to.
Report Your Injury Within the Missouri Deadline
When it comes to Missouri workers’ compensation claims, time is of the essence. As per the Missouri Department of Labor, you only have 30 days to report your injury to your employer.
Always maintain a copy of the email notice for yourself and a documented record of the date you mailed it. If you personally deliver your notice, keep track of the date and time of delivery. In addition, make a note of the recipient’s full name and title.
Here’s a pro tip: Follow up your verbal report with a written one for documentation. This will protect you if there’s any dispute about when you reported the injury.
Get Treated by a Missouri-Approved Doctor
Getting proper medical care is crucial for your physical recovery and your workers’ compensation claim. While your employer may have a preferred healthcare provider network, Missouri law allows you to choose your own doctor within a reasonable network.
Make sure you inform the doctor your injury is work-related and request documentation specifying that.
Consider Consulting a Local Lawyer
Missouri is one state where workers’ compensation regulations can get particularly complicated. A St. Louis personal injury attorney specializing in workers’ compensation can be invaluable in navigating these complexities.
According to TorHoerman Law, attorneys understand the nuances of Missouri law and can guide you through the filing process. This ensures that all your paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time.
They can also fight for all your benefits, negotiating with the insurance company to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Statistics suggest nearly 47% of workers’ compensation claims are initially denied. If that happens, a lawyer can advise you on your rights and help you understand your options.
These local attorneys can also navigate the appeals process on your behalf.
Missouri Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation in Missouri provides two main types of benefits to help you recover financially after a work-related injury: medical and wage replacement. Medical benefits cover all necessary treatments for your work-related injury, including doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, and even surgery.
FindLaw notes that there are no lifetime limits on medical benefits, and they continue as long as your injury requires treatment. Wage replacement benefits typically replace two-thirds of your average weekly wages while you are unable to work due to the injury.
According to Investopedia, workers’ compensation benefits are not taxable in most cases, which makes up for most of the lost income. The state sets maximum and minimum benefit amounts, and these benefits are usually capped at a certain number of weeks.
Be Prepared for the Long Haul
The processing period for workers’ compensation claims varies based on the extent of your injury and any potential disagreements. According to Forbes, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several years to resolve a worker’s compensation claim.
To navigate this process effectively, it’s important to maintain communication by keeping your St. Louis doctor and the workers’ compensation provider updated on your condition.
Additionally, document everything by collecting and maintaining detailed records of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, communication with the insurers, and any lost wages. Be patient, as the claims process can be slow. However, don’t hesitate to follow up with your lawyer if you have questions.
During this process, put your physical and emotional health first in order to concentrate on your rehabilitation. Follow your physician’s advice and get the care you require to properly recover.
FAQs
In Missouri, What is the Time Frame within Which an Employee Must Report an Injury?
In Missouri, an employee has 30 days to report a work injury to their employer, either verbally or in writing. Delaying this report can negatively impact your claim.
How Much Does Missouri Workers’ Comp Pay?
The amount an employee receives in Missouri workers’ comp depends on their average weekly wages. It typically replaces two-thirds of that amount while they are unable to work due to the injury.
Is Workers’ Comp Taxable in Missouri?
Workers’ compensation benefits in Missouri are generally not taxable. This means you get to keep the full amount awarded to help cover medical expenses and lost wages.
In summary, while Missouri workers’ compensation offers financial relief for work-related injuries, navigating the claim process can be challenging. Reporting the injury promptly, seeking proper medical care, and potentially consulting a lawyer are crucial steps to securing the benefits you deserve.
Patience, clear communication, and thorough documentation are key to a successful claim. This allows you to focus on your recovery and return to work with peace of mind.
