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How Timing is Important When Contacting a Boise Workers’ Comp Lawyer

Is Timing Important When Contacting a Boise Workers’ Comp Lawyer?

April 19, 2019 / Joe Frick Law, PLLC

Did you incur workplace injuries or developed an occupational illness? Under Idaho laws, you could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. In order to obtain them, you will need to act fast. A great starting point is to contact a Boise workers’ comp lawyer.

This way, you will benefit from legal advice when reporting the injury to your employer. You will also get help filling in the necessary paperwork, gathering evidence, and following procedures. But you need to act fast. Any delays could cost you your right to compensation.

Why the Rush in Contacting a Boise Workers’ Compensation Attorney?

Idaho laws foresee strict time limits for workers’ compensation claims. The most important ones refer to your obligation to report to the employer.

Reporting Requirements and How a Workers Comp Lawyer in Boise Can Help

According to Idaho Statutes section 72-701, you should notify your employer as soon as possible.

If you wait more than 60 days, you will lose your right to compensation. This will happen if you fail to file the compensation claim as well. For the claim, the deadline is of one year from the accident.

In some cases, it is possible to extend the report and/or claim period. However, it helps to discuss the details with a Boise workers’ comp attorney first.

When it comes to the injury report, you will have to prove that you could not file it earlier. Perhaps you were in a coma or mentally incapacitated. Another option is to prove that the employer prevented the report or deceived you not to file it.

After receiving your report, the employer has a series of obligations themselves. According to Idaho Statutes Section 72-602, they have to:

  • File the first report of the injury or occupational disease with the Idaho Industrial Commission. This report needs to be filed within 10 days from occurrence. This stipulation refers to all injuries or diseases requiring medical treatment and/or 1 day off work.
  • File a supplemental report if your disability lasts beyond 60 days. This report should be filed at the end of the 60 days period.
  • File a supplemental report on the termination of your disability.
  • Submit a summary of the compensation and medical services they paid and may continue to pay. The deadline for this report is 60 days from the termination of your disability.

According to Idaho Statutes Section 72-701, you have 60 days need to file a report with your employer. Sure, you could do it before getting in touch with a lawyer. However, that may not be in your best interest.

Your employer may refuse to report your injuries or try to persuade you to give up your claim. If that happens, you have the right to file the First Report of Injury or Illness yourself. A workers’ compensation attorney in Boise can help you.

They can find out if the employer complied with their reporting obligations. If they did not, the lawyer will handle reporting for you. They will also help you prepare the workers’ compensation claim. It too is subject to strict time limitations, so you have no time to waste.

Workers’ Compensation Claim Requirements and Limitations

After fulfilling your reporting duties described above, you have to file the workers’ compensation claim. The deadline for filing it is of one year. However, you should not wait that long. Here is why:

  • Your claim needs to include evidence to connect the injury or illness with your occupation
  • It has to include clear diagnoses and other relevant medical records
  • You have to assess your eligibility for the available workers’ compensation benefits and prove it
  • You have to assess the costs of your already incurred and future medical expenses

The list could continue. However, it should be obvious that you need to give your workers’ comp attorney time to prepare your case. Moreover, the sooner you file your claim, the sooner you will receive the compensation.

Get in Touch with a Boise Workers’ Comp Lawyer Now!

Why wait and risk losing your right to compensation? Get help with your case now, from one of the most dedicated workers’ comp lawyers in Boise, ID! Call 208-314-3188 or fill in the contact form to schedule a consultation!

At the Joe Frick Law firm, the first consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose. You will win answers to your questions and advice regarding your case. If you decide to hire us, a knowledgeable and experienced workers’ comp lawyer will fight for your rights. We will also handle all procedures, negotiate with the insurance company, and get you the compensation you deserve.