Work-Related Injuries

How to Check the Status of My Workers’ Comp Claim

Denied Worker’s Compensation Claim Status in Oregon

When you are waiting to find out if you have an accepted or denied workers’ compensation claim in Oregon; you will want to take advantage of the resources provided by the Oregon Workers’ Compensation Division (WCD). This organization provides benefits to eligible employees who need help with medical expenses and lost wages after sustaining an injury at work.

Waiting to find out if your claim has been accepted or denied can be stressful, especially since the process is a long and sometimes confusing one. That is why many people look for ways to check the status of their claim to see just how far along the process is and if they can expect their workers’ compensation benefits.

To check the status of your claim, first, locate your claim number or employer ID number. You can then search for the status of your claim using your WCD Claim File number, your employer’s WCD ID number, or your Insurer Claim number on the Oregon WCD Website. Next, follow the prompts and enter all the necessary information for your claim, select your preferred report format, and click the submit button to view your claim status. It can be as easy as that.

Why You Should Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Injury Compensation in Oregon

Not all injuries at work are the same, so it makes sense that some claims might require a lawyer and others you can handle on your own. Injury compensation in Oregon isn’t always straightforward, so it pays to understand your position if you have an accident on the job.

You Can Probably Represent Yourself If:

Your workplace injury is minor, like a twisted ankle or cut that needed stitches.
Your employer acknowledges the injury occurred at work.
Your injury didn’t cause you to lose much or any time at work.
There is no pre-existing condition associated with the same part of your body as the recent workplace incident.

Even in these cases, if the situation becomes more complex, it is best to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.

You Need to Hire a Lawyer If:

Your employer denies your claim or doesn’t pay benefits promptly.
Your settlement doesn’t cover lost wages or medical care under workers’ compensation.
Your work-related injuries prevent you from returning to your job, limit what work you can do, or prevent you from finding any other employment.
You receive or plan to apply for Social Security disability benefits.
Your boss retaliates against you for filing a claim.
Your injuries are because of a third party’s actions or employer misconduct.

A lawyer will understand the law and how it affects your case. Never hesitate to call an attorney for assistance to protect your rights as an injured employee.

What to Do If an Employee Experiences Work-Related Injuries

Work-Related Injuries in OregonInjuries can happen at any job site—no matter what type of work you do. This creates a stressful moment for everybody involved, leading to mistakes happening. This is what you should do if an employee experiences work-related injuries in Oregon. The first step is to remain calm. Next, follow these steps to make sure you do what is best for your employee and your company:

Act Fast – When an employee needs immediate medical attention, your top priority is to help them get it. Call 911 in emergency situations or get an ambulance to take them to the hospital.

Follow All Occupational Safety & Health Administration Recommendations – OSHA requires employers to notify the agency when severe work-related injuries occur. Hospitalizations, eye loss, or amputations need to be reported within 24 hours, while employee deaths must be reported within eight hours.

Review Your Emergency Plan – Follow all of the steps outlined in your company’s personal plan for work-related injuries. If you don’t already have one; now is the time to consider creating one as it can make a big difference when an emergency does occur.

Move Employees to a Safe Place – Move any other employees in the area to a safe place to reduce the risk of additional injured workers.

Review the Situation – Determine how severe the injury is and what caused it. This will help you determine if injury compensation will be needed.

Get Information, Evidence, & Photos – Document the injury with photos—even if they say they are fine. You will want as much information as possible in case they file a claim in the future.

Maintain Open, Honest Communication – Be transparent with your employee and the insurance company as you go through the workers’ compensation claim process.