The Five Steps to Take When You Are Injured at Work

Workplace injuries happen. They are frightening, frustrating, and often lead to a period of uncertainty for both the employee and the employer. As an employee, it is helpful for you to understand your best course of action following a workplace injury. If something is mishandled, it can mean that benefits are denied. Below are the five steps you should take after every workplace injury.

1. Report the injury to management immediately after it occurs. Do not go home and try to sleep it off or wait until a certain task is finished before alerting someone that you are hurt. It is vital to have a timely record of your injury, so reporting the accident is the first step that every injured worker should take. 
2. Seek medical attention. This may seem extreme in some cases, like in the event of a minor injury, but injuries can take time to develop, so it is important to seek medical attention right away. Also, an official medical record establishes both the timeline and severity of the injury. When it comes to securing benefits, official documents are essential. If a worker’s compensation demands that you visit a specific practice or physician to file a claim, make sure that you know where to go ahead of time. Your employer or its worker’s compensation carrier has the right to choose where you receive treatment, which is why it is crucial to alert your employer and only visit the medical professional approved by them. 
3. Document your injury separately. Do not rely on company records. Write down a personal statement about the injury, and collect both your employer’s report of the accident and your medical records to store separately. 
4. Contact an attorney. Your company’s insurance carrier is not on your side. They will absolutely try to lowball you. Hire an attorney so that you have someone working in your best interests. 
5. Determine whether you need to file a worker’s compensation claim or a lawsuit. Your attorney can help you determine that. 

If you or a loved one has been hurt on the job, contact Para Los Trabajadores for help and support. We will be on your side no matter what, and we can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.