Frequent Workers Comp Questions During A Pandemic Like COVID-19
When you get hurt on the job and your employer and workers comp is making it hard for you to get the payments you deserve, working with an attorney to file a claim is your most important plan of action. However, when there is a pandemic taking place, as it was during COVID-19, it can change a lot of things about the typical route of taking care of such legal matters. If you are in the middle of pursuing a claim in the middle of a pandemic, you are bound to have a few questions. Here is a look at some of those questions and the answers you should know.
What should you do about appointments with your attorney?
Make sure you stay in contact with your attorney in spite of the pandemic situation and keep up with appointments. Most attorneys will set up phone consultations and video interviews if necessary to keep your claim moving along even if you cannot be physically present to protect yourself from getting sick or if you are sick yourself. If the claim ends up being scheduled for a hearing in court, there may be a delay if some of the offices are closed. However, some court proceedings can be completed via teleconferencing as well.
What happens if you have an IME and have to reschedule?
Workers comp may schedule you for an independent medical evaluation (IME), and it is always important for you to keep this appointment. During this evaluation, the doctor will be assessing your condition to report back to workers comp. If you have to reschedule due to the pandemic, whether you are ill or having to shelter in place, make sure you talk to your attorney as soon as possible. Not going can harm your claim because the insurance company may state that you skipped your appointment.
What should you do if your employer closes during the pandemic?
If your employer closes during the pandemic and no one is working, it is still important to proceed with your claim, especially if you have already been off of work for a long time due to your injury. You may technically qualify for unemployment benefits due to the closure, but accepting these benefits is also stating that you were able and willing to work, which would counter your initial injury claim and cause you to lose out on any money you may have already been owed.
For more information, reach out to a workers comp lawyer.