It can happen in a few different ways. Sometimes the employer or their insurance company will reach out and start the process themselves—they essentially control the mechanism that places you on workers’ compensation benefits. There’s no formal application, but if you’re hurt at work and no one is getting back to you or explaining your status, you may need to take action. In Rhode Island, this often means filing a petition in the Workers’ Compensation Court. You can learn more about related issues such as delayed claims or eligibility questions if the insurer refuses to respond.

This is usually the point where having a lawyer is essential. Workers’ compensation in Rhode Island is an unusual system, and many attorneys do not fully understand the Workers’ Compensation Act or the process involved. If your employer or their insurer hasn’t placed you on benefits, your first call should be to someone experienced in the field. Our RI workers comp lawyers can explain your rights, and you can also review our denied claim appeal in RI for a broader overview of how the system functions.

Related Articles:

• Who is eligible for workers’ comp benefits in Rhode Island?

• What is workers’ compensation, and how does it work in Rhode Island?

• What types of injuries are covered by workers’ comp?

• Can I get workers’ comp if I’ve been working part-time?

• Can I reopen my workers’ comp claim if my condition worsens over time?