If you broke your arm at work, you might be out of work for some time depending on the type of work you do. For example, an office worker may not need as much time off as someone that works on a dock and has to carry heavy boxes all day. Either way, you will submit a workers compensation claim to your employer. If you have never done this before, the process can get confusing.  Below is some information to help you get started.

Know How Much to Settle for

You cannot get any benefits from your workers compensation claim until everything is settled with your employer. If there is any kind of dispute, you may need to contact the State Workers Compensation Board for help.

When you reach a settlement with your employer, the local State Workers Compensation Board must approve it. Once you submit the settlement, the proposal will be reviewed and a judge will determine if the settlement agreement meets the terms.

It is important that you settle for the right amount. If not, you may not have your medical expenses paid for or receive the right pay while you are off work. 

See Your Doctor Immediately

Because you broke your arm, you likely went to the doctor quickly. You need to ask the doctor for all medical records, as well as X-rays, so you can have proof that you were injured. The State Workers Compensation Board will look at the timeline of when you injured yourself and sought medical treatment. For example, if you claim the accident happened in the morning but did not tell your employer until well after lunch, the Board might raise a red flag.

The medical records should show the exact time you received your treatment, as well as the type of treatment you received, such as a cast on your arm. The doctor should also state if physical therapy will be needed after the cast comes off.

The doctor should state in the medical records how long you need to take off work and how long it will be until you can get back to your normal duties.

If you are having problems with your workers compensation claim, check out http://www.lovettlaw.com/ and contact an attorney in your area to help you. They can make sure the settlement agreement covers your expenses and that your medical records are complete so you will have a better chance at getting the benefits you deserve.