Today, we have an article about workplace accidents from Anita Ginsburg, a freelance writer.
If you’re like most people, the idea of getting injured on the job is scary. In addition to lost wages and possible sky-high medical bills, who wants to deal with the logistics of a work injury? But understanding how to do an injury report can be daunting. And if you don’t do it correctly, you could be denied worker’s compensation when you need it the most.
File an Accident Report
The first thing any employee should do after being injured on the job is to file an accident report. It’s preferred you report your injury in writing to your supervisor. In fact, several states have made it mandatory for all injury reports to be put in writing. Although verbal notice is allowed in some places, you should always report to any supervisor personnel in writing.
Seek Medical Attention
Upon filing your injury report, you should seek out medical help immediately. Even if you don’t think your injuries warrant medical attention, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Some injuries, such as back injuries and ligament tears, don’t present immediately. In addition, the laws stated by the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) allow you to choose any certified doctor to treat you. However, if you are not a federal employee, then you won’t be covered by the FECA.
File a Workers Compensation Claim
When seeking medical attention, you must tell your healthcare provider if the injury is work-related. You also need copies if the doctor records the information as well. In some cases, both employers and workers’ compensation insurance companies will deny claims when medical records don’t specifically state the injury happened at work. Play it safe and ask for duplicate copies of all medical testing and doctor’s notes.
Contact a Worker’s Compensation Lawyer
Navigating the process of a workers’ compensation claim can be stressful. Not to mention, there are insurance adjusters that are trained to make statements that can go against your claim. If you don’t have solid understanding of your rights, it’s best to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer. They will explain your legal rights, complete the necessary paperwork and correspond with your employer and their insurance company to ensure you’re receiving what’s owed to you. Above all else, never take a work-related injury lightly. If you suffer injury while on the job, take the necessary steps to ensure your legal rights and your health.
