If you are injured on the job, it is important to take prompt and appropriate action to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Here are the steps you should take after a workplace injury:
- Report the injury: Report the injury to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. You should provide a detailed description of the injury and how it occurred.
- Seek medical attention: Seek prompt medical attention for your injury. If you need emergency care, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If your injury is not an emergency, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Notify your employer: Notify your employer in writing of your injury and provide a copy of any medical reports or other documentation related to your injury. Your employer may be required to report the injury to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
- File a workers’ compensation claim: File a workers’ compensation claim with your employer or their insurance carrier as soon as possible. Your employer should provide you with the necessary forms to file a claim.
- Keep records: Keep a record of all medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to your injury. This will help you determine the full extent of your losses and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
- Follow your doctor’s orders: Follow your doctor’s orders, recommended therapies, and attend all medical appointments. Your doctor’s recommendations will be an important factor in determining your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits.
- Consider hiring an attorney: If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, if your employer is contesting the claim, or if you have any questions about your rights and entitlements, consider hiring a workers’ compensation attorney.
In conclusion, if you are injured on the job, it is important to take prompt and appropriate action to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Reporting the injury, seeking medical attention, notifying your employer, filing a workers’ compensation claim, keeping records, following your doctor’s orders, and considering hiring an attorney are all important steps to take after a workplace injury.
