Workers’ Compensation Claims In Kentucky: Statute Of Limitations

Over the years, more and more efforts have been put into improving workplace safety in Kentucky. However, the truth is that a lot still needs to be done. Also, even with enough safety measures in place, work-related injuries, and illnesses can still occur. Unfortunately, a work-related injury or illness can majorly disrupt a person’s life. However, the good news is that Kentucky allows you to file a workers’ compensation claim and recover benefits after suffering an injury or illness while on the job. Kentucky workers’ compensation benefits include payments for, among others, medical expenses and lost wages.

If you suffered an injury or illness while on the job in Kentucky and are considering filing a workers’ compensation claim, you must remember that time is of the essence. You have to abide by Kentucky’s statute of limitations. If you miss the deadline, it could negatively affect your claim and the benefits you may obtain. Read on to learn more.

The Statute of Limitations

Kentucky law gives you two years from the date you sustained your work-related injury to file your workers’ compensation claim. If you suffered an injury or illness over time, you have two years from the time you discovered your injury or illness to file your workers’ compensation claim.

However, this does not mean that your Kentucky workers’ compensation claim needs to be fully settled within two years of your accident or of you discovering your injury/illness. Your claim must simply be filed.

If you fail to file your Kentucky workers’ compensation claim within two years, you may be barred from ever filing your claim.

When Should I File My Claim?

It is best if you don’t wait to file your Kentucky workers’ compensation claim. Filing your claim ASAP will make it easy to compile evidence. If you wait to file your claim, witnesses’ memories may fade, and other pieces of evidence may be destroyed or altered. Also, filing your workers’ compensation claim without delay can allow you to recover your benefits more quickly.

Deadline for Reporting a Work Injury or Illness to Employer

The statute of limitations isn’t the only crucial deadline you need to consider if you recently suffered a work-related injury or illness. The deadline for reporting your work injury or illness to your employer could also impact your workers’ compensation claim. In Kentucky, you are required to report a job-related injury or illness to your employer as early as possible. Of course, your health should be your priority, but after seeking emergency medical treatment, you should report your injury to your employer.

How an Attorney Can Help You

If you recently suffered an injury or illness while on the job in Kentucky, it is best that you retain a skilled workers’ compensation attorney. An attorney can ensure you file your claim when it is most likely to succeed. A qualified workers’ compensation attorney can guide you throughout the process and work with you to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve. Remember, even if the insurance company does not challenge your claim, they might not inform you about all the benefits you are entitled to.

Contact a London Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you’ve suffered an injury or illness while on the job in Kentucky, our London workers’ compensation attorneys at Cessna & George Law Firm can help you pursue a workers’ compensation claim. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Source:

apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=47617