Why Be Honest With These People During A Workers Comp Claim?

Honesty, they say, is the best policy. And this mantra holds true even when dealing with a workers compensation insurance claim. In what areas should you strive to be honest and why? Here are a few key reasons to be truthful with the right parties as you navigate your claim. 

1. Your Attorney

First and foremost, speak truthfully with your legal representation. You have the right to attorney-client privilege, meaning that what you discuss with them alone is confidential. Use this right. 

In addition to speaking transparently about the accident and your injuries, tell them about anything that could come up during negotiations or a lawsuit. This includes past medical conditions and injuries, your criminal or driving history, other legal issues, financial struggles, alcohol or drug use, and prior workers compensation claims. 

2. Your Doctors

Be honest when meeting with medical providers about your injuries. There is sometimes the tendency to either overstate your injury or understate its effects. Find the honest balance between these two. 

While you don't want to seem like you're exaggerating your injury, you also need to address all your medical and mental health needs in order to recover properly. Remember that medical care teams' notes and evaluations could be key to both sides of any future lawsuit. 

3. Your Employer

In working with your employer, honesty is important. As with medical providers, don't try to over- or under-state your injuries or your ability to do light work. You may also be required to actively participate in your medical care, fulfill required examinations, and make reports. 

However, doing these things honestly and making correct statements doesn't mean being completely open. Your legal counsel can help you better understand how to speak with employers, co-workers, and others who might try to trip you up. 

4. Your Family

In general, you should discuss your accident, injuries, and case with very few people outside the legal setting. But most people need to talk with immediate family or a few close friends. How should you be honest with them? Have a frank discussion about the ground rules during your open case. 

For instance, many lawyers recommend you pause social media activity. You may want to ask friends and family to do the same or to leave you out of postings. They may also be contacted (sometimes sneakily) by insurers, investigators, or lawyers. Discuss what to do if this happens, what to say, and what not to say. It could be uncomfortable, but it's vital. 

Where to Learn More

Learn more about how to be honest — and with whom — during your workers comp claim. Meet with a professional workers compensation lawyer in your state to get started.

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