There are over 2 million nonfatal workplace accidents and injuries in the U.S. private industry each year.
A workplace injury can be devastating for workers and their families. It can leave you with long-term health problems, lost wages, and the stress of finances.
When a work injury happens, there are steps that need to be taken immediately after the accident. Not taking these steps can cause you to lose important benefits and protections.
If you are wondering what to do when you're injured on the job, this short and simple guide is for you.
Report the Accident
Many people think that because they experienced an injury at work, their employer will automatically know about it.
This is not the case. Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible.
The sooner you report the accident, the better chance you have of having your injury treated properly.
Seek Medical Attention
After reporting the accident, go to a doctor for treatment.
If you are experiencing chest pain or have other symptoms that could mean a serious injury, call 911 immediately. If your injury is minor, but you feel like it may be more serious than it appears, call your doctor for an appointment.
It is important to see a doctor who can determine what is wrong and how best to treat it.
Follow the Doctor's Orders
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your injury.
It is important that you follow these instructions carefully so that the treatment can be effective. If you are unsure about what your doctor has told you, ask questions.
Your doctor will explain the best way to care for your injury and why it is important to do so.
Preserve All Documents
You may need to show your doctor or insurance company the original documents related to your injury.
Keep all medical records and bills in a safe place so that you can provide them as needed. You should also keep a journal of all of your appointments, treatments, and other important information related to your injury.
This will help you build a complete history of your injury and assist with questions about treatment or payment.
Consult With a Lawyer
If you experienced an injury, a lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options.
If someone else caused your work injury, they may be liable for compensation. A lawyer can help you build a case against the person responsible and make sure that they pay what they owe.
If you need legal help for a workplace injury, contact this workers compensation lawyer today.
Injured on the Job: Receive Fair Compensation for Your Injury
If you're injured on the job, it's difficult to know where to turn.
If your employer underpays or doesn't pay you, it can be even more difficult. But by following the steps listed above, you can ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injury.
For more on worker's compensation, check out the latest articles on our blog.