Steps to Follow If Injured on the Job
Always report work accidents to your employer or immediate supervisor as soon as possible. Every state sets its reporting time requirements, and a claim could certainly be denied if the accident is not reported to the employer within the required time period set by your state.
If you have been injured at work, do the following as soon as possible:
- Inform your employer of the accident in writing. Include the date, time, and location of the accident, what caused it, what injuries you sustained—the more detailed, the better. Make sure you keep a copy.
- Visit a doctor for a checkup. Your doctor will advise you on how best to treat the injury and whether you need to take time off of work. Your medical records can also be used as evidence to strengthen your claim.
- Fill out and submit the necessary paperwork. Your employer should provide you with the paperwork you need to file your claim, as well as support throughout.
- Talk to a lawyer. While it is not necessary to hire a lawyer to receive workers’ compensation benefits, there are advantages to doing so. A lawyer can help you fill out the paperwork correctly or on time, so you don’t have to worry about your claim being denied. A lawyer can also help if your employer is non cooperative or the insurance company offers you a low settlement. Most lawyers offer advice for free—including us—so there is usually little risk to calling one to see if they can help with your case.
Report any workplace accidents to your employer, even if you do not feel that you have truly suffered a serious injury. Injuries can be subtle, and you may not be aware that you have suffered an injury until later; therefore, it is crucial that you report accidents immediately to have them recorded. And report any injuries as soon as you first notice them.
Handling Complex Insurance Issues on Your Behalf
If you receive a letter from the insurance company offering you a settlement, it is wise to consult with a lawyer before accepting it. Sometimes, injuries require ongoing care that insurance companies do not consider.
An experienced attorney like Mr. Warnock will work to protect your rights and ensure that you have the money you need for not only your current needs but also for any injury-related expenses that may arise in the future.