Everyone wants to come home after a long day without injuries— especially injuries that could keep you out of work or cause issues later in life. But it’s not uncommon for something small to become an injury that holds you back in your job.
According to the US Labor Statistics, there were 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported by private industry employers in 2019. These workers’ injuries can range widely in severity.
So how do you know how to act if you get injured at work? What do you do?
We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn what actions to take when you have workplace accidents and injuries.
Get Medical Treatment
Seek medical treatment to ensure that your injury is appropriately taken care of and that you can return to work as soon as possible. If you are unsure whether or not you need medical treatment, you should always act cautiously and seek treatment.
Your employer should have a list of approved medical providers that you can choose from. If you are unable to see a doctor right away, you should at least go to the emergency room to have your injury assessed.
Notify Your Employer
If you are injured at work, the first thing you should do is notify your employer. You may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can help you pay for medical treatment and lost wages.
You may be tempted to tough your injury, but that’s not always the best decision. By letting your employer know about the damage, you’re opening up a dialogue that can help you get the treatment you need and avoid further injury.
Your employer should have an employee safety procedure for reporting workplace injuries, so follow that to the letter. And don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re unsure what to do.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Filing a workers’ compensation claim will ensure that you receive the medical treatment you need and that you’re compensated for any lost wages.
To file a claim, you’ll need to fill out a workers’ compensation claim form and submit it to your employer. You should also include any medical documentation or bills related to your injury. Once your employer receives your claim, they will begin the claims process.
Seek Legal Help
Don’t try to go it alone if you are hurt at work. Seek out the help of a qualified personal injury lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve.
An attorney in your industry, such as a railroad injury lawyer for railroad workers, can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and ensure you get the benefits you deserve. Workers’ compensation laws vary from state to state, so it is vital to have an experienced attorney on your side.
Know Your Rights When Injured at Work
Workers injured at work have rights under state and federal laws, including the right to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you have been injured on the job, you must know your rights and how to protect them.
Don’t delay in seeking medical attention, and be sure to notify your employer of the accident as soon as possible. You can get back on the road to recovery with some quick action.
Check the rest of our blog for more articles and how to keep your life on track.
