Injured on the Job? Here’s What You Need to Do

In a typical year, about 900,000 workers experience an injury and miss at least one day of work. If you get injured on the job, there are specific steps you need to take. This will ensure you receive the medical care and compensation that you should rightfully have.

It’s important to know these steps because if you fail to follow them, you could be unable to recover. This could leave you injured, unable to work, and facing a large medical debt.

This guide will help you understand what you need to do after a workplace injury.

What to Do When Injured on the Job

The most important thing is your health. If you’re injured on the job, the first thing you should do is seek medical care.

Some states allow you to choose your own doctor, while other states require you to see a pre-approved doctor. If you’re required to see a doctor chosen by your employer’s workman’s’ comp, there’s typically a time limit. Then you can see a doctor of your choice after the required time period.

Notify Your Employer of Your Work Injury

As soon as you are able, you need to inform your employer of your injury. Most employers have a form that you’ll fill out. If they don’t, it’s still smart to notify them in writing and keep a copy of the communication.

If you fail to inform your employer, you may lose the right to make a claim. You’ll need to check your state law, however.

Submit a Worker’s Compensation Claim

When you are hurt on the job, you’ll need to file a worker’s comp claim with the employer’s insurance company. This is the insurance that pays to cover the employer’s liability to their employees.

This type of insurance is similar to the personal liability insurance you purchase through your homeowner’s or renters insurance. If you’re asking, what is personal liability insurance, it’s insurance that you buy to protect yourself in the event that someone gets injured while on your property.

Speak With an Attorney

Many workers’ compensation claims get denied and require an appeal. You can lower the odds of this happening for your claim by seeking the assistance of an attorney. Look for one that’s experienced with workers’ compensation claims.

They will be able to explain your rights, the claim process, and possible recovery. You’ll need to submit your medical bills so that the attorney can submit the full expense incurred from your injury.

Have Your Workplace Injury Treated

No one can predict what will happen. If you find yourself injured on the job, the first thing you should do is seek medical care. Once you’re treated, you should notify your employer of the injury and submit a workers’ comp claim.

It can be helpful to seek out the representation of an attorney. They can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Browse our other lifestyle articles for more advice on different aspects of your life.

Ben Stern wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest-growing freelance marketplace in the US. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelance applicants. Click here to get access to the top freelancers in the world.  

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