How to Prepare for an Indiana Workers Comp Hearing
If you’ve been injured at work, you’ll need to file for workers compensation benefits to obtain recovery for your damages. If you can’t agree on a settlement with your employer, you may need to go to a workers comp hearing to have your case heard in front of a judge. Workers comp hearings follow specific rules and procedures the same way court trials do.
An Indianapolis workers comp lawyer can negotiate on your behalf during your hearing. At Kooi Law, our experienced attorneys will guide you through the process and do our best to ensure that your claim is approved.
Gather the Evidence
When preparing for your workers comp hearing, your attorney will help gather all of the evidence in your case. Just like a courtroom trial, you’ll present this evidence in front of a judge to show why you deserve compensation for your injury and for any time you have to be out of work in the future.
Some common forms of documentation that prove workers comp is needed include the following:
- Medical bills
- Proof of lost wages
- Witness testimonies
- Photographs and video footage
- Doctor’s statement with symptoms or limitations listed
You can never have too much evidence supporting your claim. All of this documentation will help both you and your attorney when testifying to the judge.
Prepare Your Testimony
Although your workers comp attorney in Indianapolis will speak on your behalf during the hearing, it’s likely that the judge will also ask for your personal testimony. When preparing your testimony, you’ll want to summarize the accident in full detail. Your attorney will prepare you ahead of time for questions you can expect from the judge, your attorney, and the defense attorney.
It’s important to be honest with all of your answers and admit when you don’t know the answer to a question. Talk about any medical events that have taken place and explain how your symptoms have progressed.
Reach Out to an Indianapolis Workers Comp Attorney
Having an attorney by your side during your workers comp hearing can make the process less intimidating. You’ll feel supported when sitting in front of the judge, and you’ll know that someone is there to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve. At Kooi Law, we’re here to help, and we can guide you through the appeals process if your claim gets denied.
Contact an Indianapolis workers comp lawyer today for a free consultation and let’s discuss your case. You can call us at 317-569-1335 or fill out the contact form below.
