How to Apply for Workers' Compensation in Henrico County

Workers' Compensation in Henrico County: How to Apply 

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while doing their job, the future may seem bleak, especially if those injuries are severe enough to keep you out of work for an indefinite amount of time. You may be wondering how you will support yourself or your family.

Fortunately, Commonwealth law requires almost every employer in Henrico County to provide workers' compensation insurance. This insurance covers reasonable and necessary medical care, temporary income, and payments for permanent disability for injured or ill employees. However, workers must take the proper steps to file a claim, as a failure to do so could hurt their chances of collecting the benefits that they deserve.

Applying for workers' compensation in Henrico County is easier with an experienced lawyer who knows what the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission (VWCC) requires from you. In any case, it is important to know what to expect and what your duties are after a workplace accident occurs.

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When Must an Employee Notify their Employer?

An employee has the right to apply for workers' compensation benefits immediately after the incident occurs. To apply, an employee must first present a written notice to their employer. According to Virginia Code §65.2-600, this notice must contain:

  • The name and address of the employee
  • The time and place of the accident
  • The nature and cause of the accident and injury

Giving employer proper notice about the details of an injury arising from employment might allow them time to mount a defense in case of a dispute, but written notice is still required. Sadly, these disputes are common and may concern the extent of an injury and whether it was work-related.

Protecting the Right to Benefits in the Commonwealth

Unlike other states, workers' compensation claims in the Commonwealth must go through the VWCC. This group oversees the distribution of workers' compensation benefits and holds hearings concerning disputes between workers, employers and insurance companies.

All injured workers must provide notice to the VWCC by completing and submitting a claim form. The form can be filled out online, by mail, via fax, or in person. Employees have two years following the incident to file this form, as stated in Virginia Code §65.2-601.

This form requires workers to provide personal information, including a detailed report on the accident and the resulting injury, and select which benefits they are applying for. Working with an attorney can help workers submit the claim form correctly and exercise their rights to workers' compensation benefits.

Applying for Workers' Compensation in Henrico County is an Essential Step to Receiving Benefits

Anyone suffering an injury or occupational illness arising out of their employment has the right to apply for workers' compensation benefits. These benefits can provide payment of medical bills, temporary income relief, and income for those with permanent injuries.

However, because these payments are not given automatically after an accident, workers may benefit from a Henrico County lawyer for guiding them through the application process, including notifying both their employers and the Commonwealth about the incident and submitting a formal claim to the VWCC.

A diligent attorney can help you fill out the complex VWCC paperwork and collect supporting documentation such as medical records or a workplace incident report. Call today to consult an attorney about applying for workers' compensation benefits in Henrico County.

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If you have been injured at work or through the negligence of another individual or entity, contact us at (804) 999-9999 or or use the form below to connect with our legal team. We will fight to get you the justice you deserve.