Even with safety measures in place, employees can still get into workplace accidents and sustain injuries. If you hurt your head while on your shift and sustained a concussion because of the incident, you need to prioritize your health and seek financial help for your medical bills.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can file a workers’ comp claim in Minnesota:
Step 1: Report the accident to your employer
After your accident, you need to notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. You can do the initial reporting verbally and submit a written report once you have completed your medical treatment.
After your employer receives accurate details about the incident and your injuries, they will fill in your “first report of injury” form. It is important to note that work-related injuries can refer to both gradual and traumatic injuries, as well as occupational diseases.
Step 2: Seek medical care
In Minnesota, you can go to your own doctor to seek prompt treatment for your injuries. However, if your employer is enrolled in a Minnesota Health Care Program (MHCP), they may require you to choose a doctor from their designated list.
To help ensure that your accident is well-documented, you need to make copies of your medical records and billing receipts. Your workers’ comp insurance can cover all necessary medical expenses, including doctor fees, hospital and surgical costs and prescription medicines.
Step 3: Wait for the insurer’s decision
If your work-related injury causes you to miss more than three full work shifts, your employer must submit your FROI form to their insurer within the next ten days. Their insurer will then report your case to the Department of Labor and Industry.
If the insurer accepts your claim, they will mail you a copy of the acceptance notice that informs you of your claim number and wage-loss benefits. You will receive these benefits at the same time as your regular payroll.
Step 4: If the insurer denies your claim, file an appeal
If the insurer mails you a denial letter instead, you can contest their decision by appealing your case. You can take this step by filing an employee’s claim petition form on your own or with the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer.
By taking immediate action for your workplace accident and following the steps listed above, you can file your claim without encountering delays in the process and receive financial support for your medical bills, lost wages and/or disability benefits.
