Workers' compensation is a tool to protect you when an employee suffers an injury at work. Most of the time, these are straightforward claims. Most companies do not object to this. Yet, there may be situations when a claim does not seem authentic. It can be hard to prove. What happens if you have to pay
for those losses? Most times, your insurance helps you. Here’s a look at this tough situation.
What Happened?
Perhaps you do not believe an employee actually suffered an injury. Maybe no one saw it happen. You may not believe it happened at work. What should you do?
When a situation like this occurs, most companies need to spring into action. As soon as a person has an injury, he or she should receive medical care. Stop them from working. Call 911 or transport them to a medical provider. The goal here is to ensure proper care happens right away. No matter what you think happened, demonstrate good faith like this.
Next, call your workers’ compensation insurance agent. This person is more than just a representative to file a claim. Rather, they are working to support your company during the claim. Most importantly, they do not pay out on any claim filed. They investigate. They learn as much as they can. Then they determine what the right course of action is.
Fight the Claim or Pay it?
Once you are working with your business insurance agent, he or she handles the process for you. You can become hands-off in the claim. You should not discuss it with anyone else. And, your company should abide by the workers’ compensation insurance agency’s directions. They can tell you whether to allow the individual to work.
The agency will weigh the risks and benefits of denying the claim to require more evidence. They will also consider just paying the settlement costs. In nearly all cases, they will deny a claim if the claimant doesn't provide any proof or evidence. If that person takes you to court for the losses, your insurer will then work to protect your risks. Even if the court rules in favor of the employee, your workers’ comp insurance usually pays the bill. You do not have to do so.
Even when you think negligence did not happen, it is essential to work with your workers’ compensation insurance company through the process. It protects you. It reduces your costs. And, it keeps you out of the courtroom. Do not overlook this service. Work with your agent throughout the process.
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