Workplace injuries, although unintended, can happen to anyone and at any time. It is therefore essential to be prepared with adequate information on what to do. Claim worker’s compensation for medical bills and lost wages while away from work. Not many people are aware of the actions they need to take immediately after an injury at work, but the following pointers can come in handy.
File Your Injury Report
When you get injured on the job, you must report it immediately. This way, action such as investigations on accident causes can take place fast. Sometimes, if you delay making an injury report, the worker’s compensation insurance company and employer can deny the claim.
There are short deadlines for reporting a workplace accident for the worker’s compensation laws to be effected. Whether or not you experience hurt, report the accident promptly. If you don’t get compensation due to a lack of injury, your report can prompt the employer to implement safety measures to prevent future accidents.
Inform Your Healthcare Provider
It’s necessary to seek immediate medical help after an injury, but ensure your healthcare provider knows that it is work-related. This way, if your medical report is required for future reference, you can provide it as proof. In addition, it makes it easier to get compensation for your injury if the first medical note indicates it resulted from an accident at work.
Write a Formal Notice to Your Employer
Immediately after the incident, write a formal notice to your employer about the claim. Include all the necessary information regarding the accident for your employer to review. For example, include the exact date and time and briefly describe that moment’s happenings. A written notice serves as evidence and puts you in the safe zone with your employer. It also increases your chances of receiving a workman compensation without many issues because your employer and insurance stay on the same page.
Keep a Diary of Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Missed Workdays
If you’ve been away from work for over a week, many state employee laws allow you to receive a weekly wage replacement for all out-of-pocket expenses. However, there is a seven-day waiting period in the worker’s compensation law that requires an injured employee to get paid for missed workdays. With a diary, you can keep track of the mileage you travel to seek medical treatment, out-of-pocket expenses, and missed workdays. It also serves as the necessary documentation for proof before receiving any benefits.
Seek Help from an Attorney
Filing workplace injury claims and following up on them can be confusing and exhausting. Sometimes, especially when the insurance company and employer deny you worker’s compensation, it’s easy to give up due to frustration. Insurance adjusters can also be privy by taking recorded statements to use against you and deny the claim. Instead, work closely with Anchor Law Firm to fill out your injury forms, handle your worker’s compensation claim, and ensure you receive the medical help you need.
Bottom Line
As much as business owners put in safety measures to protect employees, injuries can still occur. When they do, you must act promptly and know your rights. Be fast about reporting the claim and writing a notice to your employer before time lapses. Seek medical help and work closely with an attorney to receive the benefits you deserve.
