Getting injured on the job is not a big deal when you take appropriate action. Mishandling an on the job injury can rob you of money, time off and any potential lawsuit. Protect your legal rights as a worker by using resources like lawalways. The more information you have, the better protected you can be after an accident.
5. Report It
Follow normal company protocols for reporting an on the job injury. If you ever have to go to court over the incident, this will be the root cause of all your problems if it is done wrong. Every business has its own guidelines for filing an incident report. Don’t file it with a ‘higher up’ close friend or coworker, go right to the source. No matter who you talk to, the report is always going to end up in the hands of the person it was originally meant for.
4. Leave A Paper Trail
Document everything you do, including all contact with individuals involved in the report. Emails can get lost, and papers can get misplaced. By having the originals, your story stays consistent. It will also speed up the entire process when the company repeatedly asks you for the same papers. Dealing with an accident report is an exercise in repetition, so always have a backup of your own files.
3. Be Honest With The Doctor
Lying to a doctor will not get you positive results. Lying to a doctor during an on the job injury can get you sued and fired. And if the injury is serious, a lie will lead to dangerously incorrect diagnosis. There is no point in putting your life in danger to get a few bucks and some time off. No matter what you’ve done up to this point, lying to a doctor can easily undo all of your good work.
2. Keep Your Company In The Loop
You will be forced to ask for multiple updates on the process of an accident report if there are no dates attached. Stay on top of it, and always keep a record of the conversation through email, text message or with a viable third-party present. If there is any new information about your injury during the process, approach them rather than expecting them to keep up with you.
1. Consult With An Attorney
A company may show no interest in going through with workers compensation benefits. At this point, it is up to you to take matters into your own hands. This is not something to make light of, so never make verbal threats about litigation. In your own time, consult with an attorney that can guide you in the correct direction for your particular case. Consulting with a law professional does not have to be disclosed, and is considered a private matter.
Wrap Up
You are entitled to workers compensation benefits after a major injury. Make it a point to prioritize getting those benefits the right way instead of leaving it to fate. Take a job-related injury seriously so that your company understands where you stand. And above all, believe in your own personal rights as a worker that gave it their all.