Part of holding such an important business role also involves managing any challenges that arise, such as workers’ compensation claims. If an employee has injured themselves in the workplace, you might like to take some of the following steps for cost efficiency and a fast resolution.
Make Employee Support Your Priority
When an employee has been injured at work, they’re likely experiencing a great deal of stress and uncertainty. Make supporting them your number one priority and leave all liability decisions in the capable hands of insurers and injury lawyers.
While there’s no denying that a workers’ compensation claim can be costly, it can be even more so when it’s managed poorly. Focus on your employee’s recovery and return to work, and let experts handle the intricacies of the legal process.
Be Prompt With Your Claim
As busy as you might be due to poor time management or too many tasks on your to-do list, reporting a compensation claim should be your top priority when an employee injures themselves. As a general rule, reporting a workers’ compensation claim quickly can improve the chances of having access to all accident evidence to resolve it promptly. A prompt report might also mean your worker can start their accident treatment sooner and possibly even return to work sooner.
Investigate The Incident Thoroughly
You might not have been around when the workplace injury happened, but that doesn’t mean you can’t understand every detail surrounding the event. When something happens in your workplace, start an investigation as soon as possible. Obtain the facts, talk to witnesses, and interview those with the most knowledge about the worker and their job. Being able to secure the scene, preserve evidence, and take pictures might allow for a fast and smooth claims process for all involved.
Develop A Return-To-Work Program
Most employees would prefer working rather than recovering from injuries on their sofa at home. It’s only natural for employers also to want their employees back at work as soon as possible. Depending on the injuries sustained, there might be potential for the development of a return-to-work program to welcome employees back sooner rather than later. Typically, these programs incorporate light activities and doctor-approved tasks that won’t impact recovery or healing.
Open The Lines Of Communication
When lawyers and insurance companies get involved after a workplace accident, a lot of important information has to be discussed. It’s easy for some of this information not to reach the right people, so make communication your priority.
Keep the lines of communication open with your employee so you can inform them of anything they need to know. Offering your support and being transparent and empathetic might also show your employee that you care about their well-being.
Final thoughts
There’s no denying that a workers’ compensation claim can be tough to manage, particularly when injury lawyers and insurance companies are involved. However, managing such a claim might be easier than you think when you take any of the actions above.