My first experience with the concept of workers compensation ("WC") came from a three-inch staple that went in one side of my index finger and came out the other as I inspected a box in the international shipping department of a major transportation company. Like me, my supervisor was young and wasn't quite sure what to do. I pulled the staple out, bandaged my finger, filled out a report, and went back to work. It was only after speaking to friends and family members that I thought about getting a tetanus shot. It wasn't that my supervisor was trying to harm me in any way or that my employer did anything to keep me from filing a claim. Injuries simply didn't occur often in our operations. That was good.
I remember my WC experience each time I accept a new case. I know employers forget to complete the proper claim forms when injuries occur because the best employers have safety procedures that work. They are not completing these forms every day, and they need to be reminded about them when accidents occur. They might also need help completing them accurately. This is not because they are evil, as is often implied. We should be glad they are not experts at completing accident reports. This suggests they keep their workers safe.
Accidents will happen however, especially in certain high-risk industries. When they do, I will help you navigate the process. I know the presumptions are weighted heavily in favor of the person who files the claim, or "the claimant," but I also know this does not mean you are guilty of any wrongdoing – or even negligent.
I'm here to help you gather the evidence necessary to resolve your cases fairly and as quickly as possible...so you can focus on what provides the jobs for your employees. I'll coordinate action plans with your vendors, risk managers, general counsel, and claims examiners. I'll send you comprehensive reports and keep you informed. I'll train you get the best results under the circumstances and in the future. Let's get started.
DISCLAIMER: This post is intended only as general information. It is not legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. If you need specific legal advice, please contact an attorney to discuss your circumstances.
Nance L. Schick, Esq. is a counselor at law, business and conflict resolution. She advises actors, authors, construction contractors, designers, fitness and yoga instructors, film and stage producers, models, and other small businesses on a variety of operational issues, and she defends employers of all sizes in workers’ compensation claims. She takes their success personally and works tirelessly to help them achieve beyond their expectations. For more information, go to www.nschicklaw.com.
