Appropriate Steps if You are Injured on the Job
Millions of people are injured while performing work-related duties each year. If you become one of them, there are certain steps that you need to take to ensure that your rights are protected should you need to file a personal injury claim or apply for Worker's Compensation benefits. Though specific requirements will vary by state, there are four important steps to take if you are injured on the job (for work comp and personal injury claims) or performing work-related duties:
Get Medical Treatment
See St Louis Injury Lawyer blog article, Choice of Doctor Under Missouri Workers' Compensation. The first thing you should do is tend to your injury, especially if it is severe. Apply first aid on the scene, if necessary, then see a doctor. If your injuries are severe, see a doctor immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, you should protect yourself by getting an independent evaluation by a qualified physician. Be sure to tell the doctor that your injury was sustained on the job, and remind him or her of this fact on follow-up visits if they are required. Your employer may also require that you visit an approved physician. If this is the case, be sure to make an appointment with one of these physicians and bring your medical records if necessary.
It is always best to tell your supervisor about your work-related injury as soon as possible. Communicate the details of the injury in person, preferably immediately following the injury, then follow up with a written report. If you have to file a claim later, a written document will provide proof that you notified your supervisor. No such proof is available if you have only make a verbal report, and your supervisor could deny your claim. State laws require that you report your injury within a certain time frame in order to qualify for compensation or other claims. A typical time frame is 30 days, but some allow a longer time period. The sooner you report your injury, the better.
Talk to an Attorney
A personal injury attorney can advise you about whether your injury entitles you to compensation or other claims. An attorney can also ensure that your rights are protected and can advise you on how to proceed with discussions with your employer, making decisions about continued working conditions, arranging for medical care, and more. If you have to file a Worker's Compensation claim or other legal claim, an attorney can assist you.
Keep Records
Be sure that you document all the circumstances surrounding your injury: all visits for medical treatment, discussions with your supervisor, discussions with your attorney, claims filed and so on. Maintaining proper records can provide proof for your claim and ensure that you are not denied any benefits based on technicalities.
Of course, a qualified personal injury attorney is your best resource if you are ever injured on the job. Set up a consultation immediately if you are injured for tailored advice on how to proceed with getting treatment, communicating with your supervisor, and filing any necessary claims.
Amanda Tradwick is a grant researcher and writer for CollegeGrants.org. She has a bachelor's degrees from the University of Delaware, and has recently finished research on teaching grants and student grants in maine.
