A workplace injury can occur in nearly any field. If you ever are injured during work-related activities there are some important guidelines you should follow.
Work Place Injury Do’s
- After a workplace injury, do not move. Your injury could be more severe than you suspect and moving could make things worse. If the injury is causing substantial pain or seems serious then insist on getting an ambulance and immediate care.
- Identify coworkers or other people that witnessed the accident. If possible, make a list of names, addresses, and phone numbers.
- Contact your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer as soon as possible to report the accident and make sure that you get a copy of the incident report. Be sure to include all injuries and problems.
- Seek medical attention if problems or pain continues. Choose a doctor that you are comfortable with and trust. See a specialist if needed. Ask how long you can expect to be out of work and what possible long term disabilities you may have.
- Create a file for yourself with copies of all of the paperwork and information related to the workplace injury. Include all medical bills, mileage to and from health care visits, x-rays, scans, tests, reports, witness statements, and any other documentation having to do with the incident. Keep a diary of the event and everything that follows including doctor appointments. When suffering a workplace injury it is best to write everything down while it is still fresh in your mind.
- If compensation is not being received and bills are not being paid, contact an attorney specializing in personal injury. Write down all the questions you have prior to the call so that you don’t forget any.
- Do not discuss your workplace injury case with unnecessary parties. You should not give statements or discuss the injury with anyone beyond your spouse, your doctor, and your attorney.
- Do not be bullied into not reporting the incident.
- Do not sign any paperwork or checks that indicate you are releasing the company from liability or closing or settling your case unless you are 100% sure that you are prepared to do so. If you do settle or close, make sure that you are adequately reimbursed to cover any future costs that may arise due to the injury.
- Do not settle your case before you are medically stabilized. You will want to wait to settle until after you’ve healed as much as possible. Your doctor will be able to let you know when you have reached this point.
- Do not settle your case without speaking to an attorney and having your rights explained and questions answered.
Work Place Injury Don’ts
Workplace injuries can occur at any time and can be a result of many different things. Make sure that you are looking after your own health and well-being.