What To Do If You've Been Injured At Work
If you have been injured at work, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, many workers who suffer a workplace injury find that their worker's compensation claim has stalled or does not resolve in their favor because they are unfamiliar with how the system works. Furthermore, in certain situations, an injured worker may have additional claims against their employer that fall outside the workers compensation system. By following these useful steps you can build a solid case for your workers compensation claim and protect yourself on additional claims that might be available:
1. Seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. If you are seriously injured, call 9-1-1. Provide the doctor with all the details surrounding your injury so this will become part of your medical treatment records. Be sure to keep copies of your medical records related to your workplace injury.
2. Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Request a copy of the employer's incident/accident report and keep this with your records.
3. Document the incident. If possible, take photographic documentation. Be sure to take pictures of any injuries, machinery or equipment involved in your injury and any incident scene details. Keep a written log of the incident, including the name of any machinery or equipment involved in your injury, and the names and contact information for any individuals who witnessed your injury. If any safety equipment has been removed from machinery involved in the injury such as a safety guard, be sure to document and photograph this hazard.
4. Consult an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced worker's compensation attorney and/or injury attorney will evaluate your case and will explain what your rights are. An attorney will help your worker's compensation claim process smoothly by ensuring that all appropriate documentation is submitted. An experienced worker's compensation attorney may also advise you of additional benefits that you may be entitled to. An experienced injury attorney will be able to assess if you have additional claims to pursue to obtain justice.
A personal injury attorney will maintain objectivity and work with you to find the best resolution to your case. A qualified injury lawyer will be able to determine, based on your specific circumstances, whether your claim is best resolved through mediation- saving you time and money. Additionally, if your claim goes to court an experienced injury lawyer will handle your claim effectively to get the best possible jury verdict.