How Long Until I Get My Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Dealing with a workplace injury can be stressful, not only because of the physical pain but also due to concerns about compensation and benefits. To successfully obtain workers’ compensation benefits in Louisiana, it’s important to know the necessary steps and deadlines to navigate the system effectively.

Understanding the overall process and timeline can provide clarity and reassurance while waiting for your benefits. Our Louisiana workers’ compensation lawyers at Dudley DeBosier can help you with your claim by ensuring you receive compensation without unnecessary delays.

Overview of the Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Process

The time it takes to receive your workers’ compensation benefits depends on how quickly you initiate your claim with your employer. Here’s a general overview of the process:

• Report the injury. Inform your employer about the injury as soon as possible. They should be put on notice no later than 30 days after the incident.

• Seek medical attention. Get immediate medical care for your injuries. In Louisiana, you have the right to choose your medical provider.

• File a claim. Your employer must file a First Report of Injury or Illness form (Form LWC-WC IA-1) with the Louisiana Workforce Commission within 10 days of the injury.

• Employer’s insurance company evaluates the claim. This evaluation should be completed within 14 days of receiving the claim to determine benefit eligibility.

• Start of benefits. If approved, temporary disability payments typically start following a seven day period . These benefits compensate for 66⅔% of your average weekly earnings and also cover medical expenses related to the injury.

• Continuous monitoring and reassessment. The claim may require ongoing evaluation to adjust benefits or address disputes, which could involve hearings or further legal action.

How Do Medical Benefits Work in a Workers’ Comp Claim?

Louisiana’s workers’ compensation system does not require you to pay hospital bills upfront. Medical expenses will be sent to your employer or their insurance provider. They are responsible for covering all essential medical costs, including reasonable travel expenses related to receiving treatment.

Medical benefits must be paid within 30 days after the employer or insurer receives written notice of the expenses. If the medical provider does not use electronic billing, payments must be made within 60 days.

If you have any out-of-pocket medical expenses, provide an itemized list along with receipts to your employer or their insurance company to get reimbursed. This is a standard procedure in workers’ compensation claims to ensure that injured workers are not financially burdened by the cost of necessary medical care resulting from work-related injuries.

What is the Timeline for Receiving Lost Wages After a Workplace Injury?

When you file a claim, the payment process typically starts on the 14th day after your injury has been reported to your employer or their insurance provider. These benefits help ensure you’re not burdened with financial worries during the days you cannot work due to your injury.

Compensation is designed to retroactively cover you starting from the 8th day post-injury, with the first week being unpaid. If your disability lasts longer than two weeks, the compensation package will be adjusted to include the first week of your absence. This arrangement ensures that despite any potential delay in receiving your initial payment, you’ll receive compensation for the entire duration you’ve been off work due to the injury.

How an Attorney Can Help with Your Case

Navigating the workers’ compensation process can feel overwhelming, particularly when you’re also coping with the impact of an injury. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Dudley DeBosier can help ensure you receive the benefits you are owed on time.

Here’s how we can assist you:

• Advocate for your rights and interests throughout the claims process
• Ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time
• Represent you in negotiations with your employer or their insurance company
• Assist with any appeals or disputes that may arise during the claims process

Get Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits on Time

After a workplace injury, you may feel financially vulnerable due to missed work and a long physical recovery. At Dudley DeBosier, we can help you have peace of mind surrounding your workers’ compensation claim and receive the benefits you are entitled to in a timely manner.

We have years of experience handling these complex claims and can help you understand the timeline for receiving your medical benefits and wages. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation and let us help you with your claim.

Disclaimer: This content has been reviewed by Scott Sonnier, Workers’ Compensation Attorney at our Baton Rouge office.

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