Getting a workers’ compensation settlement can be tricky. As nice as it would be to get a check as soon as you get sick or injured on the job, it doesn’t work that way. In fact, many people miss out on settlements they deserve, simply because they make mistakes along the way.

Do these 4 things, and you’ll increase your odds of getting the workers’ compensation settlement you’re entitled to:

1. Hire the right attorney

Chances are you aren’t an expert on New York’s workers’ compensation laws. That’s why you need a great NY workers’ compensation attorney to fight on your behalf. The good ones will have plenty of experience handling cases just like yours, so they’ll know exactly what to do to maximize your chances of getting a settlement.

2. Document everything

Even though your NY workers’ compensation attorney will be working hard, you’ll need to help him out along the way. Your main responsibility will be to document everything. Even if certain things don’t seem all that important at the time, keep a record of them. You never know when that information is going to come in handy later!

In fact, your documentation needs to start as soon as you get sick or injured — even before you hire a lawyer. The letters, phone calls, and doctors’ visits you go through right in the beginning can be the most crucial in getting a workers’ compensation settlement.

3. Be prepared for a fight

Even if you’re legitimately sick or injured, actually getting a workers’ compensation settlement can be tough. Your company (and its insurance company) will likely fight you every step of the way. After all, they don’t want to spend money! Your NY workers’ compensation attorney will be there to guide you through the process, but it will be up to you to stay strong. The other side may intentionally try to make things as tough as possible on you, so that you’ll drop your claim before they have to write a check. Don’t let them get away with it!

4. Think ahead to the future

Even if you’ve received a workers’ compensation settlement, that might not be the end of your case. If your injury or illness ever turns into a full-blown disability, you’ll need a Nassau County Social Security attorney to help you with that case.

And don’t think that getting a settlement prevents you from filing for disability benefits later. A good Nassau County Social Security attorney can help you get the benefits you deserve — even if you’ve already gotten money from your workers’ compensation claim.

Lee Braunstein has spent decades helping sick and injured New York workers get the settlements they’re entitled to. Wondering if he can help you? Just log onto www.leebraunstein.com!