Mississippi workers’ comp law is full of strict deadlines. Miss one, and you could lose your right to benefits, even though your injury is real. Here are the deadlines every injured worker should know.
1. Report the Injury Immediately
Report your work injury immediately to your employer. If you fail to report it immediately, your employer may deny your claim based on failure to report. he sooner you report it, the better your case.
2. Two Years to File a Claim
Typically, you have two years from the date of injury to file a formal petition with the Mississippi Workers' Compensation Commission. Though some exceptions may apply.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Cases take time to build, and missing this deadline ends your case before it starts.
3. Choice of Physician
If you treat with your employer’s physician for six months or more, then they will be considered under Mississippi law to be your Choice of Physician, even if you did not choose the physician.
4. One Year to File a Claim after Notice of Final Payment
If your Eemployer or carrier file a Notice of Final Payment Form, you have one year to seek additional treatment and file a formal petition with the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission.
5. Medical Treatment Time Limits
If the insurance company stops approving treatment, that might be an attempt to close your case quietly. Don’t let it happen. If treatment is denied, contact a lawyer right away.
6. Death Claims
Surviving family members have two years from the date of death to file for workers' comp death benefits.
Conclusion
Deadlines in Mississippi workers’ comp aren’t suggestions, they’re hard limits. If you’re unsure about whether you’re still within your window to file, we’ll tell you straight.
Call Eichelberger Law at 601-202-9981.