The number of preventable work deaths was 4695, a 5% increase from 2021. This doesn’t include the estimates for preventable injuries. But whether fatal or not, getting injured on the job can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience.
It can leave you with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. But that doesn’t mean you can protect yourself and your future if the unimaginable happens. It starts with understanding your rights after being hurt at work and how an experienced attorney can help.
Keep reading to learn more.
Seek Medical Attention
The moments following a workplace injury are critical. Your priority should always be your health. Get treatment immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
Seeking medical attention doesn’t just help with physical recovery. It also serves as an official record of the incident, which is vital for any worker’s compensation claim. Remember to follow the doctor’s instructions. This includes any prescribed treatments, medications, and rehabilitation plans.
Additionally, follow your employer’s procedures for seeking medical care as this can affect your claim. Be sure to provide detailed information about the accident and your injuries to the doctor. Everything should be documented thoroughly since the records will serve as evidence in your claims case.
Report the Injury
This is a critical step that you should take after getting treatment. Failure to report the accident promptly might jeopardize your worker’s compensation claim. This can make receiving the benefits you’re entitled to more difficult.
Go into detail when reporting the injury to your employer. Details to highlight include the date, time, location, and a description of how the accident occurred. Also, provide the names and contact information of any witnesses that were present.
Remember to follow your employer’s specific procedures for reporting workplace injuries and accidents. The processes may vary depending on the company and state in which you reside. Adhering to them will ensure that your claim is processed correctly.
Request that your employer document the report in writing and ask for a copy for your records.
Document Everything
This is crucial for building a strong workers’ compensation case. Records can go a long way toward providing evidence to support your claim. It also helps ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Start by gathering and organizing details about the accident itself. This includes the date, time, location, and a detailed description of how the incident occurred. If there were any witnesses present, record their names and contact information.
Take photographs or videos of the accident scene and your injuries as soon as possible. These visual aids can be invaluable in illustrating the severity of the incident and the extent of your injuries.
You’ll also want to keep meticulous records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to your injury. This includes doctor’s notes, prescriptions, medical bills, and any other relevant documents.
Don’t forget about documenting any communication with any parties involved in your case. This may include your employer, insurance company, and others. Keep copies of emails, letters, and notes from phone conversations.
Consult With an Experienced Workers Comp Attorney
The workers’ compensation process can be overwhelming. This is especially true for someone who doesn’t understand the legalities involved. The good news is that a workers comp attorney can help increase your chances of getting a fair settlement.
A skilled lawyer will have an in-depth understanding of the relevant laws and regulations in your state. This includes processes for filing claims. They’ll ensure that all deadlines are met while avoiding common mistakes that could tank your case.
A lawyer will also help you better understand your rights and the benefits you may be entitled to. They can negotiate with the insurance company, fighting for a fair settlement on your behalf.
If your claim is denied or disputed, the attorney can represent you in hearings and appeals. They can present evidence and argue your case. Their expertise and advocacy can prove invaluable in your claims case.
Understand Workers’ Compensation Benefits You May Qualify For
Workers compensation is designed benefits to employees who’ve been injured on the job. They’re usually administered by state-level workers’ compensation boards or commissioned. Employers fund them through insurance policies.
A crucial aspect of protecting your rights after being hurt at work is understanding the benefits that might be available to you. Some of the key ones are:
Medical Benefits
Workers’ comp covers all medical expenses related to your injury. This includes hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, tests, and more.
Temporary Total Disability Benefits
You may be eligible for these benefits if your injury keeps you from working for an extended period. They typically cover a portion of the lost wages.
Permanent Partial Disability Benefits
These benefits are payable to workers whose injuries result in a permanent impairment or limitation. They are meant to compensate you for your reduced earning capacity.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Workers comp may also cover the cost of vocational rehabilitation services, such as job training or education. This will help you maintain employment by providing the training or other services you need.
Death Benefits
As noted beforehand, accidents in the workplace can result in fatalities. If that happens, workers’ comp provides death benefits to the surviving dependents. This may include a spouse, children, or other family and friends.
It’s worth noting that the specific benefits and eligibility can vary depending on the state and specifics of your case. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure you understand and pursue the benefits you’re entitled to.
Hurt at Work? Talk to a Workers’ Comp Attorney
Being hurt at work can be a life-altering experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right knowledge and a dedicated workers comp attorney by your side, you can navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation and focus on what’s most important — your recovery.
If you’ve been injured at work, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel from Hollington Brown LLP. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights during the workers’ comp process. Our goal is to help safeguard your future by getting you the settlement you deserve.
Schedule an appointment now to discuss your case.
