5 Important Steps to Take When You’ve Been Injured at Work

First, immediately tell your employer you have been injured.  Many employees fail to report their injuries to their employers, and the employers attempt to use the lack of notice as a defense to deny the employees’ claims.  You should always tell your employer that you have been injured, and seek medical attention immediately if you need it.

Second, when you seek medical treatment, you should inform your health care provider that your injury is work-related.  This allows the health care provider to document the injury and to bill for the treatment as a workers’ compensation claim.

Third, once you have received initial medical treatment, you should inform your employer of the nature and extent of your injuries and medical treatment sought.  If you are unable to do so due to your injuries, you should have a friend or family member inform your employer.

Fourth, as soon as you can after the injury, but no later than 30 days after the injury, provide written notice to your employer of the accident causing the injury.  You can simply provide a written statement that provides the date, time, and place of the injury, and a brief description of how the injury occurred.  If you cannot write the statement due to your injuries, have a friend or family member do it for you.  Keep a copy of the statement for your records.

Fifth, follow your medical provider’s instructions for your medical treatment.  Your medical provider is qualified and licensed to provide you with medical treatment and instructions to help you to heal as soon as possible and to return to work once you are able.  The purpose of The Workers’ Compensation Act is to provide you with health care and wage loss benefits so you can heal up and return to work.  If your claim is denied or you are not receiving these benefits, please contact The Law Group 910-251-6088 office for a free consultation.