When you get hurt at work, filing a Workers’ Compensation claim should feel like the natural next step. After all, Workers’ Comp exists to cover your medical treatment and help replace lost wages. But many injured workers hesitate to file, often for reasons that could end up costing them the care and benefits they need.
Here are some of the most common reasons people hold back, and why you shouldn’t let them stop you.
They think their injury isn’t bad enough
It’s common to downplay an injury, especially if you don’t want to make a fuss at work. But small injuries can worsen over time, and even a “minor” accident can lead to medical bills, lost wages, and long-term problems. Workers’ Comp is there for exactly these situations.
They’re afraid of how their employer will react.
Many workers stay quiet because they fear retaliation from their employer or feel like filing a claim is being disloyal. The truth is your employer carries Workers’ Compensation insurance for this very reason. Not only is it your right to file a claim, but it is also illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for doing so.
They don’t know how the process works.
The Workers’ Comp system can feel complicated and overwhelming. Between paperwork, deadlines, and dealing with the insurance company, it’s no wonder some people give up before they start. The good news: you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney can guide you through the process and fight to get you the benefits you deserve.
They’re not sure their injury will be covered.
Some workers think they can’t file if they were partly at fault for the accident, or if they already had a pre-existing condition. In New York, Workers’ Comp is a no-fault system. This means you may still qualify even if the accident was partially your fault, or if a workplace injury aggravated an old condition.
They worry it will take too much time or money.
Filing a Workers’ Comp claim is free. And if you choose to hire one of our attorneys, you don’t pay out of pocket — legal fees only come out of your settlement if we win your case. In the meantime, having a lawyer can save you time by handling paperwork, evidence, hearings, and negotiations with the insurance company.
They don’t think they have enough evidence.
Maybe there weren’t witnesses, or maybe you didn’t take photos at the time of the accident. Don’t let that stop you. Evidence can take many forms, and your attorney can help gather records, request surveillance footage, and track down anything that supports your claim.
They’ve been discouraged by others.
Sometimes coworkers or even supervisors will tell injured workers not to file or share negative stories about the process. Every case is unique and it’s best to get a professional opinion first, especially when the consultation is free.
Don’t Miss Out on the Benefits You Deserve
If you've been injured on the job, don't let fear, confusion, or uncertainty stop you from filing a Workers' Compensation claim. At MCV Law, our Workers' Comp attorneys have decades of experience helping injured workers navigate the system and fight for the care and compensation they need. Contact us today for a free consultation at 315-606-COMP.