The United States is home to several booming industries that shape the country’s economy. With the rise of various businesses every year, accidents are bound to happen.
Even though construction workers are more prone to workplace accidents, a system is in place for employees to get compensation for their losses after an accident at their workplace.
Many employees are unaware of their rights as working individuals, so it is best to look for a local workers’ compensation lawyer in such a situation.
Here are a few tips that you can keep in mind if you get injured at your job.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention is one of the most crucial things to do when you’re injured in the workplace. Even if the injuries seem insignificant, some symptoms might develop over time, and it is necessary to detect them on time. If you do not seek medical attention, you will put your health and your possible compensation claim at risk. Such medical assessments come with a medical report that can support your workers’ compensation claim.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer
Once medical professionals check the victim, it is ideal that they formally inform their employer about the accident. Most workplaces have a strict deadline when it comes to reporting workplace injuries. Failing to adhere to these deadlines might result in a denied claim.
Employees can file a written report with the company’s HR, as it will also work as a record of the events that followed the accident. If the employer refuses to record the incident formally, the victim can keep the written proof as a supporting document.
3. Document Everything
It is necessary that the victim documents every aspect of the accident. Some victims prefer to keep an injury diary where they can note the accident’s date, time, and location. Such records can also include documents like:
- Witness statements
- Medical records and doctor’s notes
- Medical and other bills
- Pictures of the injury and the location and cause of the accident (such as wet floors and faulty equipment)
- Emails and correspondences regarding the injury claim
4. Understand Your Workers’ Compensation Rights
All company employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they get injured at their workplace. Workers’ compensation includes compensation for the victim’s medical expenses and lost wages.
One thing to remember is that by obtaining workers’ compensation, victims cannot sue the company regarding the same injury.
Every working individual must be aware of their rights; failing to do so might result in being scammed out of fair compensation in case of an accident. In situations where the company tries to deny their claim, victims must reach out and connect with a workers’ compensation lawyer. Victims must take precautions to protect their compensation by not accepting quick settlements or signing documents.
5. Consult a Workplace Injury Lawyer
Consulting a workplace injury lawyer can significantly impact the victim’s claim. These lawyers represent victims and ensure they receive fair compensation for their damages. Though many might think that hiring a lawyer is not necessary, they can come in handy in the following situations:
- The employer denies the claim
- The victim faces retaliation after they report the injury
- The employer is not following proper procedures.
Conclusion
Taking the proper steps after a workplace injury is crucial to protect the victim’s health and legal rights. From seeking medical assistance to getting a lawyer, each action the victim takes is a step towards protecting their rights as an employee and a victim. Although advocating for your rights as an employee might sound challenging, understanding them and taking proactive steps can make all the difference.
