Workplace accidents and injuries are declining in the United States. Employers reported 2.7 million illness and injury cases in 2020, down 5.7% from 2019, the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals. Although being injured at work can be stressful, it’s important you take the right steps after an accident to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Get in touch with an experienced lawyer
Employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance in most states (Texas being the exception). If your employer has this insurance, you’ll be entitled to benefits, but won’t be able to sue them (keep in mind, you won’t be eligible to file for workers’ compensation if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the accident). Nevertheless, it’s usually worthwhile consulting an experienced and reputable personal injury attorney after a workplace accident. An attorney can help you complete and submit the required paperwork on time, so you can focus on recovery and keep unnecessary stress at bay. And, if any issues concerning your claim arise, your lawyer can deal with them promptly, so you’re able to get compensation, Fvflawfirm.com explains.
See a doctor
Obviously, if you have a severe injury, you’ll need to go to the emergency room. If your injury is minor, check with your employer if there’s a specific doctor you need to book an appointment with. If your employer chooses the doctor and you’re unsatisfied with the outcome, workers’ compensation laws may permit you to get a second opinion from another doctor. The doctor will also keep a record of all your appointments together, as well as let your employer know when you’re ready to return to work. Always go to your doctor’s appointments and follow their instructions for recovery — otherwise the insurance company may think your injury isn’t as bad as you say it is and therefore deny your claim.
Report the accident to your employee
Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Most states have a limited time frame to report accidents and, if you don’t get it done in time, you may be barred from collecting workers’ compensation. Your employer has to file the workers’ compensation claim on your behalf; make sure you get a copy of it. You’ll also need to complete a workplace injury report. Again, be sure to keep a copy for your own records. Additionally, you’ll need to keep a record of all the work day’s you miss and expenses generated traveling to and from doctors appointments throughout your recovery. These records will be essential for making your claim and help ensure you get the compensation needed to cover all expenses.
Workplace accidents can be emotionally, mentally, and physically painful, but you can make the process as simple as possible by taking the right steps afterward. By contacting an experienced lawyer, seeing a doctor, and reporting the accident to your employer promptly, you can ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
