This is a continuation of our four-part series on claims reporting. Missed Part 1: Introduction to Claims Reporting? Click here!
As the employer, which injuries should you report? The answer is simple: all of them!
Now, we’re not talking about paper cuts here or a stubbed toe from kicking the copy machine, when it refuses to copy. If your employee needs a little antibacterial cream and a Band-Aid to return to work, that doesn’t have to be reported (though it’s a good idea to log the injury and keep it on file).
Anything that requires more medical care than a bandage should be reported, even if your employee decides not to seek out a doctor’s care and timing could not be more important! If you wait three or more days to report the injury, the cost of a claim will rise by 40%. Wait seven days to report what an employee deems an injury, and legal control is waived.
Reportable injuries extend to vehicle injuries, as well. Report injuries if they happen during the work day or when the employee is on his or her way to work. Insurance companies will try to put responsibility for bodily injury on workers comp, so a paper trail is important, and this includes a police report.
So, if you know of an employee who is injured at work, on the way to work, or during the workday, report it and report it quickly.-and while you’re at it, stock up on Band-Aids!
Come back next week for Claim Reporting Basics, Part 3: The Claim Reporting Trap.
-Steve Petty, Director of Risk Management
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Steve Petty joined the Insured Solutions team as Director of Risk Management in 2010. The lessons he has learned from thirty-five years in risk management formed a foundation for what is today a unique Workers’ Compensation program, generating exemplary results for employers. |
Contact Steve at steve.petty@insuredsolutions.net, (229) 207-0664.