Filing a Worker’s Compensation Claim in Portland or Pendleton, Oregon

PORTLAND and PENDLETON, Ore. Whether you work in construction or in an office, there is always a risk that you may at some point be injured on the job. Whether your injuries are carpal tunnel syndrome or a serious life-altering injury requiring disability and rehabilitative care, Oregon’s worker’s compensation has you covered.

However, if you’ve been injured on the job, you have certain responsibilities under Oregon law. Your first step should be to let your employer know you’ve been injured. When you report your injury, you should learn about your employer’s worker’s compensation insurer. You’ll also need to complete a Form 801 and your doctor will need to complete a Form 827.

Even small injuries should be reported to your employer. It is important to report any injury you sustain, even if the injury is minor. Why? Small injuries can sometimes lead to longer term disability if they take time to heal. You don’t want to fail to report your injury, and then face difficulty later if your injury turns into something disabling.

When you report an injury, your employer is required under Oregon law to provide you with a worker’s compensation form. If you face any difficulties with reporting your claim, or threats from your employer for reporting a claim, it is important to understand your rights. You have the right to make a claim without threat of retaliation. If you are concerned, you may wish to speak to a worker’s compensation lawyer who may be able to assist you. Visit www.wbgatty.com to learn more.

You also have the right to seek medical care from a range of providers, including nurse practitioners, chiropractors, naturopaths, podiatrists, and other medical providers. You’ll submit your claim to your employer’s worker’s compensation insurance. In many cases, your claim will be accepted and your medical care will be paid for. However, in some instances, claims are denied. If your claim is denied and you disagree with the denial, the Oregon government suggests that you seek legal representation for your denied worker’s compensation claim. Welch, Brunn, & Green: Attorneys at Law are qualified worker’s compensation attorneys working with workers in Pendleton and Portland, Oregon. We can review your denial letter, your case, the nature of your injuries, and may be able to assist you.

The consequences of a denied claim can result in a serious financial burden for you and your loved ones. You may be responsible for your medical care costs, rehabilitation expenses, and may not receive work loss benefits if your claim is denied. The good news is that you have the right to appeal any decisions made by your employer’s worker’s compensation insurance. A worker’s compensation attorney only gets paid if you win. It is important to keep all documentation related to your injury and to make it to all doctor’s appointments. You also should make sure you meet all deadlines for filing a claim and appealing a denied claim. Failure to do so can result in a denied claim. Finally, seek the assistance of a worker’s compensation lawyer if you have questions or difficulties. A lawyer won’t get paid unless your claim is accepted.