Filing a workers’ compensation claim requires careful attention to deadlines. Workers’ compensation provides financial support for employees who suffer injuries or illnesses due to their jobs. Filing a claim within the required time frame ensures that the injured worker receives the benefits they need. Missing the deadline may result in losing the right to these benefits.
The two-year deadline
Injured workers must file a workers’ compensation claim within two years from the date of the injury. This two-year period includes time spent receiving medical treatment and recovering from the injury. The clock starts ticking on the day the injury occurs. If the injury involves an illness that developed over time, the deadline starts from the date the worker discovered the illness.
Exceptions to the deadline
There are some exceptions to the two-year deadline in specific situations. For example, if the employer fails to file a report of the injury with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, the deadline may get extended. In cases involving minors or mentally incapacitated individuals, the deadline might also change.
The exact duration of these extensions depends on a case-by-case basis. For example, the deadline might extend until the minor reaches the age of majority, which is 18 years old. These exceptions provide additional time to file, but acting quickly always offers the best chance of meeting the requirements.
Taking timely action
Delaying filling out a workers’ comp claim risks losing the right to benefits, which could have serious financial consequences. By understanding the deadline and any potential exceptions, injured workers can take the necessary steps to protect their rights and secure the compensation they need.
