Steps To Take After An Injury At Work
Being involved in a workplace accident can be a harrowing experience. However, it does not have to leave you devastated. Compensation for the personal damages associated with a workplace accident may be covered by workers' compensation insurance. However, compensation may not be awarded if proper actions are not taken immediately after an accident. Here are a few things you should be sure to do if you are injured at work:
Inform your supervisor.
As soon as you are able, you should inform your supervisor of the incident. He or she will advise of you of the next steps that you should take. If you would like to see a doctor, your supervisor may offer a list of physicians that are approved for the worker's comp cases of the organization for which you work. In some instances, the supervisor may tell you that you may choose the physician of your choice.
The supervisor will also provide you with the claims forms needed to submit your case for reimbursement. The forms may ask for personal information as well as details concerning the accident in which you were injured.
It is important to advise your supervisor of you injuries as soon as possible. A delay could suggest to the insurers that your injuries did not actually occur at work or were not serious enough for you to seek medical help.
Call for an ambulance if you believe your injuries are serious.
If you believe that you are seriously hurt, you should seek medical attention promptly. An ambulance can be called by your co-workers or supervisor if emergency care is needed. The medical reports generated by the emergency workers and physicians who treat you can help substantiate your claims of injury.
Write down what transpired as soon as possible.
As soon as you can, record your recollection of the events. The sooner you write down what transpired, the more likely you will be to record the details of the event accurately.
Also, if co-workers witnessed the accident, you can have them write their own rendition of the event. Their testimony can help support yours.
Contact a lawyer.
A worker's compensation attorney, such as one from The Reed Noble Law Firm PLLC, can represent you to increase the likelihood of you receiving adequate retribution. Often, workers' comp lawyers offer an initial consultation free of charge.
To learn more about how to obtain compensation for a workplace injury, schedule an appointment with a workers' compensation attorney in your area.