Workplace injuries can be physically, emotionally and financially devastating. Therefore, when you get injured on the job, knowing your rights and taking the necessary steps to secure the compensation you deserve can be crucial.
These are the two essential actions that workers must generally take after a workplace injury to help you secure the compensation that they need to recover and move forward.
Report the injury immediately
The first and most crucial step after a workplace injury is to report it to your employer as soon as possible. This report should be made in writing, following your company’s established protocol for reporting workplace accidents. In many cases, there is a designated form to fill out or a specific person to inform. Promptly reporting the injury is crucial because it establishes a clear incident record, making it harder for your employer or their insurance company to dispute your claim later on.
When reporting the injury, include detailed information about how it happened, where it happened, the date and time and any witnesses present. Be as thorough as possible in describing your injuries and symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem at the time. Sometimes, seemingly minor injuries can develop into more significant problems over time.
Seek medical attention
Your health should always be your top priority, so immediately seek medical attention for your injuries. Even if you believe your injuries are trivial, it’s essential to have a physician evaluate and document your condition. Overlooking medical treatment can jeopardize your health and make it easier for your company’s insurance provider to argue that your injuries were not severe or were caused by something other than the workplace incident.
When visiting a healthcare provider, remember to inform them that your injury is work-related. This documentation is essential for establishing a link between your injuries and your job, which will be important for your compensation claim.
Suffering a workplace injury is a challenging and often overwhelming experience. However, taking the right steps immediately after an incident can significantly improve your chances of securing the compensation you need to recover.