Tennessee Workers’ Comp Basics: What to Do if Injured on the Job
If you are injured on-the-job in Tennessee, the Tennessee worker’s compensation insurance program is designed to help you. Through a federally mandated program, every employer in the state with five or more full or part-time employees is required to carry workers’ comp insurance.
This insurance is also mandated for all employers in the construction or mining industries, but exempts state and local governments and employers of farm laborers or domestic help. However, these agencies may elect to provide coverage.
If you are injured on-the-job, there is a process to follow.
- If injured, report your injury immediately to your employer.
- Your employer will then complete a “First Report of Injury”.
- Your employer will offer you a panel of physicians to see.
- You will choose one physician who becomes your authorized treating physician.
- Your employer pays this physician.
- Next, you must complete Form C42, “Agreement Between Employer/Employee Choice of Physician”. Your employer keeps this form on file.
- At this point, you should be treated and your sick time covered by the employer.
When the system fails you:
While this process sounds like it has you covered, too many times problems arise and the employee finds that the system has not worked for him. This can happen for many reasons, but here are a few:
- Your injury is found not to be compensable.
- Your physician turns out not to be authorized by the employer.
- You are fired or terminated from your job because of your claim.
- The statute of limitations runs out.
If you or a loved one has been injured on-the-job, you should contact a Memphis workers’ comp lawyer immediately at the first sign of trouble. The law is complicated and there are many ways that your employer’s insurance company can save itself money at your expense.
Call Bailey & Greer today toll-free at 901-680-9777 if you feel that your mandated rights are being compromised. We have the experience and professional resources to help you get you the compensation you deserve.
Since graduating magna cum laude in 2005 from the University of Memphis School of Law, Thomas has helped make a difference in the lives of victims of serious personal injury, wrongful death, and professional negligence. Thomas has extensive trial experience in both state and federal court. Among other victories in the courtroom, Thomas obtained several impressive jury verdicts and settlements
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