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Workplace injuries are common and can happen to anyone. In fact, a study by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows there were over 1.5 million workplace injuries in 2021. That is nearly 4,100 injuries every day.
Whether a minor injury such as a sprain or a serious one like broken bones, knowing what to do if you sustain injuries at work can help you recover faster and resume your schedule sooner.
Report the Injury to Your Supervisor
If you have been injured at work, the first step is to report the accident to your supervisor immediately. While some states require you to report workplace injuries verbally, it is best to write them down and give a copy to your supervisor.
Reporting your injury on time will help ensure that you receive appropriate medical attention and compensation. Remember, each state has its own laws regarding when you must report an injury. So check with your employer or attorney for the guidelines in your area.
Seek Medical Attention
Whether your workplace injury is minor or severe, you should seek medical attention immediately. This will ensure you get the treatment you need for a speedy recovery.
There are several options available for the treatment of workplace injury. While some employers offer an employee assistance program, others allow workers to choose their own doctor from a list the insurance company provides.
For purposes of workers’ compensation claims, the doctor’s medical opinion will have great weight in determining the extent of your injuries and whether they qualify for benefits. So, choose a doctor you trust to give an unbiased opinion on your injuries.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
A workers’ compensation claim is a claim filed by an employee against their employer seeking compensation for injuries sustained while on the job. Its benefits may include reimbursement for medical expenses and lost wages from time off work.
Ideally, you can file a workers’ compensation claim by filling out the appropriate form provided by your employer. However, if your employer does not offer such a form, contact your state’s workers’ compensation office to obtain one.
When filling out your form, ensure you include your sign and date. Once completed, submit the form to your employer and keep a copy for reference. Finally, give your employer’s insurance company time to investigate the claim to determine if you qualify for benefits.
Contact an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complicated and stressful.
“Besides dealing with serious injuries and emotional trauma, you also need to deal with an insurance company whose main goal is to protect their interests, not your needs,” says workers’ compensation lawyer Scott Silberman of Silberman & Lam, LLP. To protect your rights and recover the benefits you deserve, you should consider contacting an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
An attorney will help you file your claim and ensure it is processed promptly. They will also negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to under the law.
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