If you think you deserve workers' comp, you should act quickly.
Hibu Websites • March 31, 2021
If you think you deserve workers' comp, you should act quickly.
28 Oct, 2016
If you have been injured while working or you were injured while performing work-related activities, you may be eligible for workers' compensation. Under Iowa law, there are time limitations restricting the amount of time you have to file a workers'...
If you have been injured while working or you were injured while performing work-related activities, you may be eligible for workers' compensation. Under Iowa law, there are time limitations restricting the amount of time you have to file a workers' compensation claim. These regulations are important to know and follow if you want to ensure that your claims are reported promptly and handled appropriately.
What is the first step?
After you have determined that you have sustained a work-related injury that has caused you to miss more than three days of work, your first step is to notify your employer. There is a 90-day time period following an injury wherein the employer must know that an injury occurred. If an injury is reported after this 90-day window, the claim may be denied and you may lose the opportunity to procure benefits, namely compensation.
What is next?
Once an employer has received appropriate notice, a report must be filed with both the Workers' Compensation Commissioner and the insurer within four days of the employer being notified. All employers are required to maintain a current record of all reported workplace injuries if the injury reported prevents an employee from working for a full day.
Any filed reports are required to be reported by means of the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). All documents regarding workers' compensation can be found on the Iowa state workers' compensation website. Many of the documents listed will provide additional instructions regarding any steps that need to be taken in individual circumstances or how to go about contacting any relevant authorities should you have questions. If you have further inquiries, it may be helpful to speak with a legal professional.
Additional limitations
There are statutes of limitations for both the first few years following an injury. According to Iowa state law , benefits may be denied if you do not receive weekly compensation benefits or if you do not file an application for arbitration within the first two years following an injury. If you do receive workers' compensation benefits, you have three years after the last weekly payment to file an action with the Workers' Compensation Commission to receive additional benefits.
The time immediately following an injury can feel stressful and overwhelming. Fortunately, there are many resources to assist you as you go about the process of procuring appropriate benefits.
Injured in a multi-car pileup? Our West Des Moines auto accident attorneys explain how fault is determined and how to get full compensation. Call for a free case review.
Wondering how your workers’ comp rate is calculated in Waukee, Iowa? Time off for vacation, illness, or holidays can lower your benefits. Learn why reviewing your rate with experienced workers’ comp attorneys matters to protect your income after an injury.
Boating accidents on Iowa’s waterways can turn deadly in an instant. In Des Moines, trust LLDDC Law—experienced boat injury and wrongful death attorneys—to investigate fast before crucial evidence disappears. The call is free. No fee unless we win.
Injured in a motorcycle accident in West Des Moines? Learn why immediate action is critical and how LLDDC Law’s motorcycle accident attorneys can protect your rights and fight for compensation.
Injured in a car accident in Ankeny caused by an uninsured driver? Learn how LLDDC Law’s experienced auto accident attorneys can help you recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage.
Injured at work in Des Moines? Learn your rights to paid time off for medical appointments and how LLDDC’s experienced workers compensation attorneys can help you get the benefits you deserve.
Injured in a car accident in Urbandale? Learn how a personal injury attorney can help you secure a settlement that covers future medical bills, lost wages, and more. Call LLDDC Law today!
Concerned about a work injury aggravating a pre-existing condition? In West Des Moines, IA, Iowa law may still entitle you to workers' compensation benefits. Learn how prior injuries impact claims and what steps to take to protect your rights. Read more today!
When it comes to car insurance, many people think primarily about liability coverage—insurance that covers others if you’re at fault in an accident. However, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is equally important, as it protects you if an accident leaves you injured by a driver with inadequate coverage. What is Underinsured Motorist Coverag e? Underinsured motorist coverage is designed to safeguard you and your family from the financial burden of an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have sufficient insurance to cover your damages. Here’s how it works: Imagine you’re at a local Des Moines sports event. After parking, you’re walking across the lot when a vehicle accidentally hits you, causing injuries. If that driver has no insurance or only minimal coverage, their policy may fall far short of what you need to cover medical bills, lost income, and other expenses. Underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy steps in to fill the gap, helping you recover the full amount necessary to cover your damages. This protection applies whether you’re in your vehicle or, as in this example, outside of it—what matters is that your injuries resulted from the actions of an underinsured driver. How Much Underinsured Motorist Coverage Should You Carry? The amount of underinsured motorist coverage you carry is a personal choice, but it’s worth considering a higher limit. In Iowa, insurance companies are allowed to sell this coverage with a minimum limit of $20,000 per person. However, relying on minimum coverage could leave you financially vulnerable in a serious accident. Insurance agents often recommend high liability limits to protect others in case you cause an accident but may suggest lower UIM coverage to keep your costs down. Yet, underinsured coverage is specifically for your protection and the well-being of your loved ones. It doesn’t make much sense to carry more coverage for others’ injuries than for your own, yet this is common due to the way policies are structured. Reviewing Your Policy: Are You Adequately Protected? Take a moment to review your policy or discuss it with your agent to ensure you’re not underinsured. Here are a few questions to consider: • Does my underinsured coverage match my liability coverage? If not, you might want to ask why, especially if your liability limits are significantly higher. • Would my current underinsured coverage be enough in a serious accident? Consider your financial situation, family needs, and potential medical costs to make sure your coverage is sufficient. If you find that your uninsured/underinsured coverage is significantly lower than your liability coverage, it might be time to ask questions and re-evaluate your options. Prioritizing adequate underinsured motorist coverage is an investment in peace of mind, ensuring that you’re better protected, no matter who is at fault in an accident.
Injured workers in Waukee may be asked to travel far for medical exams, but is it required? Learn your rights and how a workers’ compensation attorney at LLDDC Law can help you challenge unreasonable travel demands.
Share On: