If you’ve been injured on the job in Missouri, understanding the timeline for filing and resolving a workers' compensation claim is crucial to protect your rights and secure the benefits you deserve. At T.K. Thompson & Associates, we are dedicated to helping the Liberty public navigate the workers' compensation process with clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Reporting the Injury

The first step in any workers' compensation claim is reporting the injury to your employer. Under Missouri law, this must be done within 30 days of the injury. Failing to report your injury within this timeframe could jeopardize your claim.

Step 2: Employer's Responsibility

Once notified, your employer is responsible for:

• Filing a First Report of Injury (FROI) with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation.
• Providing you with medical treatment through an approved healthcare provider.

Step 3: Filing the Claim

While the employer files the FROI, you may also need to file a Claim for Compensation if disputes arise or benefits are delayed. This form must be filed with the Division of Workers’ Compensation within two years from the date of the injury or the last payment of benefits, whichever is later. If your employer fails to report the injury, this timeframe extends to three years.

Step 4: Medical Treatment and Benefit Payments

You’re entitled to receive medical treatment and, if necessary, temporary disability benefits while recovering. The length of this phase depends on the severity of your injury and the time it takes for you to reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).

Step 5: Resolving the Claim

Once you reach MMI, your claim can proceed in one of two ways:

• Settlement Negotiation: If both parties agree on the compensation amount, the case may be settled relatively quickly, often within a few months.
• Hearing Process: If no agreement is reached, the case may go to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The hearing process can extend the timeline by several months or longer, depending on the complexity of the case and the court's schedule.

Final Resolution

After a hearing, it may take several weeks or months for the judge to issue a decision. If either party disagrees with the ruling, they can appeal, further extending the timeline.

How T.K. Thompson & Associates Can Help

Navigating a workers' compensation claim in Missouri can be complex and time-consuming, especially when dealing with medical treatments and financial concerns. At T.K. Thompson & Associates, we provide experienced legal guidance to ensure your claim is handled efficiently and your rights are protected.

If you’re in Liberty or the surrounding area and need assistance with a workers' compensation claim, contact us today. We’re here to help you secure the benefits you deserve.