By taking the time to read this now, you are protecting yourself. Getting hurt at work could happen in any setting, from a slip and fall, handling machinery, or various other incidents. Knowing the proper steps to take afterward is crucial. This article outlines key actions to consider immediately after experiencing a workplace injury and adds insights into what follows regarding recovery and dealing with claims.
What To Do After Getting Injured
When you get injured on the job, the first step should always be to seek medical help. Your health and safety should always come first. During an emergency, you should not prioritize your claim over getting treatment. If able, promptly inform your employer about the injury because this is the starting point for a workers’ compensation claim. Maintain detailed records of anything related to your injury, including medical documents, expense receipts, and conversations with your employer.
Tracking your symptoms and how they evolve is vital. Injuries worsen over time, so you should record any work days missed due to the injury. Documenting how the injury impacts your daily activities is also a consideration for your compensation claim. Ensure that your medical provider knows that the injury occurred at work so it is recorded accurately. (It is also very important to keep up with and make all your medical appointments. In addition to being vital for your health, the medical records created because of the appointment serve as documentation of your injuries.)
Gather contact details of any witnesses because their version of events surrounding the accident will be valuable. Take photos of your injury and the accident site. Refrain from sharing information on the incident or claim on social platforms because they could be taken out of context and be detrimental to your claim. Also, be careful about signing any documents from your employer or insurer without first speaking to your attorney.
What the Process Looks Like
Once you’ve reported the injury, expect to receive information from your employer about initiating a workers’ compensation claim. This claim is intended to assist with medical costs and compensate for lost wages. Filing this claim swiftly is crucial as there are strict deadlines that, if missed, could jeopardize your claim.
You may be directed to a physician your employer or their insurance provider chose. As noted above, adhering to medical advice and attending all scheduled appointments is essential. If you’re dissatisfied with the medical care, you might have the option to seek another opinion, though specific rules may apply for changing physicians in these cases. Depending on your injury, you could be asked to submit further documentation or participate in hearings throughout the claim process.
Prompt and accurate compliance with these requests avoids delays in your claim. Be prepared for potential challenges to your claim by your employer or insurer. This is one of several reasons why you should have legal counsel. You can qualify for vocational rehabilitation services if your injury prevents you from returning to your job. Remember, workers’ compensation operates on a no-fault basis, allowing for benefit eligibility irrespective of who caused the injury.
Taking immediate and appropriate actions following a workplace injury is crucial for your health and legal rights. Get the medical care you need, report the incident to your employer, and keep thorough records. Understand the process of filing and following through with a workers’ compensation claim and the importance of meeting deadlines and adhering to medical advice.
John M. Totten, P.C
For guidance or inquiries regarding a workplace injury, consider consulting a legal professional. A consultation with an attorney experienced with personal injuries will help you clarify your rights while making choices in your best, long-term interest. When you are injured, you are not alone. Contact our office, schedule a consultation, and get the proper support to help you navigate the compensation process efficiently.
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