What to Do When You Get Injured on the Job
No one wants to get injured, and when it happens at work it can be even more frustrating. It’s important that you know what to do if you are hurt on the job so you can get the help you need and the support you deserve. Your workplace should offer you help so that you can safely recover and avoid future injury, and also compensate you for the time you miss because of an injury on the job. Here are three essential steps to complete if you have a work-related injury!
Seek Medical Treatment
The very first thing you need to do is make sure that you have medical treatment to take care of your injury. This is important for two reasons. First it ensures that you get the care you need and that your injury doesn’t get worse over time. The second reason is so you have a medical record to support the injury. Those records will be important especially when you are seeking workers compensation. When you meet with your doctor, make sure that you get a copy of the record so you can prove your injury to your workplace. Make sure to have a thorough checkup so you can know the whole extent of your injury.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
You also need to make sure that you file a workers’ compensation claim as soon as you can. This will be filed with your work and will get the process started so you can be compensated. You may also wish to set up an appointment with HR, so you know what you need to do to make sure you get the help you need. Workers’ compensation claims can get complicated fast without the proper legal representation. Getting a lawyer to help can make things easier on yourself especially while you are dealing with the aftermath of your injury. It’s worth taking the time to at least consult with a lawyer so you know what the process looks like and if you should pursue legal action.
Consider Disability
If your injury is severe, you may need disability help in addition to workers compensation. It is a good idea to have disability insurance at all times so you can still afford your day to day life even if you become disabled. You can talk to your employer about disability insurance as many companies offer it as a benefit. You can also apply for disability through the federal government if the results of your injury are likely to keep you out of work long term. Communicating with a lawyer and HR can help you to figure out what you need to do to make sure you are financially secure after an injury at work.
Dealing with an injury at work can be really frustrating and difficult. But it doesn’t have to be something that you stress about long term. If you are able to take care of yourself and address the injury early, you can get the help you need.
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