11 Tips for Taking an Effective Recorded Statement in Workers’ Compensation Claims

The recorded statement is crucial in the workers’ compensation claims process. It is a formal record of an injured employee’s account of the incident, the resulting injuries, and other relevant details. Conducting an effective recorded statement is essential for obtaining accurate information, evaluating the claim, and making informed decisions. This article will explore the key considerations and best practices for taking an effective recorded statement in workers’ compensation claims.

Preparing for the Recorded Statement

Understanding the various laws and regulations is crucial when preparing for the recorded statement. It should often be done early in the claims process. Be sure to communicate with the employee’s attorney if the person has retained legal representation.

• Familiarize yourself with the claim: Review the claim file and relevant documents before conducting the recorded statement. Understanding the details of the incident, medical reports, and any available witness statements will help you ask targeted and informed questions.

• Establish a conducive environment: Choose a quiet and private location for the recorded statement to ensure confidentiality and minimize distractions. Inform the injured employee about the statement’s purpose and provide reassurance that their cooperation is valued.

If possible, consider using a Webex system to personalize the process and maximize the effectiveness of the process.

Building Rapport with the Employee

Never go into a recorded statement with an aggressive posture. Empathy and compassion are required. Remember the old proverb, “You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.”

• Create a comfortable atmosphere: Begin the conversation with a friendly and empathetic tone to put the injured employee at ease. Active listening, showing empathy, and demonstrating respect throughout the process help establish rapport and encourage open communication.

• Explain the process: Clearly explain the purpose of the recorded statement, its significance in the claims process, and how the information will be used. Assure the injured employee that their account is essential for accurately assessing the claim.

Asking Effective Questions

The purpose of the recorded statement is to obtain as much background information as possible early on in the discovery process. Getting the employee to talk as much as possible is vital.

• Use open-ended questions: Ask open-ended questions to encourage the injured employee to provide detailed and comprehensive responses. This helps uncover relevant information and allows the employee to explain their perspective in their own words.

• Sequence the questions logically: Structure the questions in a logical order, starting with the incident itself, followed by questions about the resulting injuries, medical treatment, and any prior medical history that may be relevant. This ensures a smooth flow of information and helps capture a complete picture of the claim.

• Seek clarity and specific details: Ask follow-up questions to clarify any ambiguous or incomplete responses. Encourage the injured employee to provide specific details such as dates, times, locations, and descriptions of the incident and subsequent injuries. This helps establish a clear timeline and accurate understanding of the events.

Use a language translation service, or offer one if the employee does not use English as their primary language. People who speak English as a second language, even if for a long time, can be intimated by not speaking their native tongue in any legal-type proceeding. Offering to use a translation is also another technique to develop rapport and provide calm.

Active Listening and Documentation

Use your ears to listen and not your mouth. It also may help to take simple notes during the process and then go back and write down additional information afterward.

• Listen attentively: Pay close attention to the injured employee’s responses and actively listen to their account. Take note of any inconsistencies, information gaps, or areas requiring further investigation.

• Document accurately and objectively: Take thorough and accurate notes during the recorded statement. Use the injured employee’s words whenever possible to maintain the integrity of their account. Avoid assumptions, personal opinions, or leading questions that could bias the recorded statement.

Again, always treat the employee with dignity and respect. Avoid being judgmental.

Closing the Recorded Statement

Complete the recorded statement with the same professionalism as it began. The employee may have questions. Take the following steps before terminating the call or online session.

• Recap and verify the information: Summarize the information provided by the injured employee and confirm its accuracy. Allow the injured employee to add any additional details or correct any misconceptions.

• Address any concerns or questions: Inquire if the injured employee has any questions or concerns related to the claim or the recorded statement process. Addressing these promptly can help alleviate any uncertainties and ensure a positive experience.

It is also crucial to be aware of procedural steps that need to be completed for the statement to be admissible at a hearing. Failure to take these steps can have negative consequences.

Conclusions

Taking an effective recorded statement in workers’ compensation claims is a critical aspect of the claims process. By preparing adequately, building rapport, asking effective questions, actively listening, documenting accurately, and showing empathy, any claim handler can take a better recorded statement.

 

Michael Stack, CEO of Amaxx LLC, is an expert workers’ compensation cost containment systems and provides education, training, and consulting to help employers reduce their workers’ compensation costs by 20% to 50%. He is co-author of the #1 selling comprehensive training guide “Your Ultimate Guide to Mastering Workers’ Comp Costs: Reduce Costs 20% to 50%.” Stack is the creator of Injury Management Results (IMR) software and founder of Amaxx Workers’ Comp Training Center. WC Mastery Training teaching injury management best practices such as return to work, communication, claims best practices, medical management, and working with vendors. IMR software simplifies the implementation of these best practices for employers and ties results to a Critical Metrics Dashboard.

Contact: mstack@reduceyourworkerscomp.com.

Workers’ Comp Roundup Blog: http://blog.reduceyourworkerscomp.com/

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Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws vary. You should consult with your insurance broker, attorney, or qualified professional.