There are many ways to be injured at work, but the aftermath is always the same, often laden with stress, anxiety, and questions.
If you've never gone through workers' compensation before, the steps you need to take aren't always clear:
- What should you do next?
- Who should you contact?
- What rights do you have?
This blog eliminates some uncertainty after being hurt while on the job by providing a simple, step-by-step guide for what to do next. Here are five steps to take following a workplace injury.
1. Seek immediate medical attention
Your health should always be your top priority. If you've been injured at work, then seek immediate medical attention. Many people don't want to draw attention to themselves or inconvenience their coworkers, but making sure your health is protected is crucial.
Even if the injury seems minor, get a thorough examination, as some injuries may not be readily apparent.
Just as important as your health is the documented evidence of your injury that a medical examination will provide. That documentation is necessary when filing a workers' compensation claim. Confirm that all medical reports accurately describe the extent and cause of your injury, as this information will be vital in your claim.
2. Report the injury to your employer
In the second step, you must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Every state has specific deadlines for reporting a workplace injury, and failure to meet these deadlines could jeopardize your claim. In California, workers have ten days to report their injury, but the sooner, the better.
Employees should provide a written account of the incident, including how, where, and when it occurred. Remember to keep a copy of this report for your records.
Reporting your injury promptly and accurately helps the workers' compensation process, ensuring your rights are protected.
3. Document the incident and gather evidence
While it can be hard while you're recovering from an injury, it's important to maintain a detailed record of your workplace accident and subsequent injury.
Documentation may include the following:
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Witness testimonies
- Medical records
- Bills
This paper trail will be proof of the incident and its impact on your health and daily life. This evidence will be invaluable when asserting your workers' compensation claim and seeking appropriate compensation for your injury.
4. File a workers' compensation claim
After you're injured, filing a prompt workers' compensation claim is crucial.
This process for filing may seem daunting, but it's a critical step to make sure you'll have the resources you need to cover your medical bills, time away from work, and cost of living while recovering.
When filing your claim, ensure all the information is accurate and meet all the deadlines. Remember that errors or delays can lead to your claim being denied or delayed, adding more stress to an already challenging situation.
5. Consult a workers' compensation lawyer
Speaking with a workers' compensation lawyer can make a significant difference in your case, even if you feel confident filing the claim yourself.
An experienced attorney understands the complexities of workers' compensation law and can guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected.
A workers' compensation lawyer can maximize your compensation, covering medical costs, disability, and even job displacement. Engaging a lawyer shows your employer you're serious about your claim, which can lead to a more satisfactory resolution.
Injured at work? Schedule a free consultation with Mishra X Trial Lawyers.
Dealing with a workplace injury can be overwhelming, but these steps can streamline the process. If you're injured at work, don't face it alone––contact Mishra X Trial Lawyers for a free consultation.
Our team is dedicated to fighting for our client's rights and securing the compensation they deserve. Remember, we don't charge a fee unless we win your case. Reach out today, and let us advocate for you in your workers' compensation claim.