In 2022, Long Island saw a troubling increase in construction fatalities, with 24 workers losing their lives—a 20% rise from the previous year. Workplace injuries require immediate action to protect one’s rights and strengthen a compensation claim. Reporting the injury, seeking prompt medical care, and documenting the scene are essential steps.
Employees seeking worker’s compensation from Levine And Wiss PLLC can rely on experienced legal counsel to guide them through the process. Whether disputing denials or securing fair settlements, these attorneys prioritize injured workers’ well-being and financial recovery.
This blog will delve into important steps to be taken right after sustaining a workplace injury to lay a solid foundation for your case.
Seek Help Immediately
The primary concern in case of a workplace injury should always be seeking attention for any injuries sustained in an accident—no matter how insignificant they may appear at first glance. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to receive documentation of the injury’s severity, as medical records play a role in supporting any future claims. Delay in seeking assistance could affect one’s health and any legal actions that may follow.
Inform a Supervisor or Manager
It’s important to let your supervisor know about the incident and make sure to write down what happened for the record with management to avoid any disagreements about what occurred exactly. Giving a brief description of the events helps in creating a story. If you’re unable to jot down all the details yourself, you might want to ask a coworker for help.
Record the Details
Taking notes and photos of the accident site is extremely valuable for building a case after an incident. Including proof, like images of any dangers or tools in play, can bolster your claim. Providing details about the surroundings and circumstances, along with any influencing factors, gives an understanding of the situation. Documenting your pain levels in a diary, along with visits and progress in healing, also adds credibility to your account.
Collect Testimonies
If there were people who saw what happened, gathering their testimonies can strengthen the argument in favor of the case being made here. These folks can give recollections that back up the story told by the person putting forth the claim. Encourage these witnesses to jot down what they saw without delay while it’s still fresh in their minds. Making sure you have their contact details will allow for follow-up if more info is needed.
Assess Company Guidelines
Having a grasp of workplace injury protocols can make navigating the system smoothly and efficiently easier. Examining the policies can provide insight into your entitlements and duties, as well as the necessary actions for submitting a claim. Following the procedures can help avoid delays and complications that may arise. If you find the guidelines confusing or ambiguous in any way, it’s advisable to reach out to the human resources department for clarification.
Submit a Report Detailing the Accident
Sending a report about the accident to your employer is part of the claim procedure. The report should cover information like when and where the incident occurred and the type of injury sustained. Staying objective and refraining from using terms helps uphold the report’s reliability. It’s also wise to keep a copy for your files in case disagreements arise.
Seek Advice From a Lawyer
In injury cases, seek out an attorney for valuable advice and support through the legal process. They can provide insights into your rights, help navigate procedures, offer guidance on potential compensation, and represent your interests in case of disputes. Initial discussions with an expert can shed light on the strength of your case and what outcomes to expect.
Stay in Touch with Everyone Involved
Regular communication with your employer’s insurance representatives and legal counsel is crucial. Keeping everyone in the loop about any updates helps build trust and transparency. Sharing information on your progress and plans for returning to work shows your dedication to resolving matters. Clarity in communication reduces confusion and helps streamline the process.
End Note
Dealing with a work-related injury requires following a set of steps, like getting attention promptly, recording what happened, seeking advice from legal professionals, and keeping an open line of communication to establish a strong foundation for a potential claim for benefits or compensation. This proactive approach can help protect one’s rights and concentrate on healing to secure a bright future.
