Have you recently been injured at work? If so, you’re probably feeling frustrated and unsure of what your next move should be. Workplace injuries are relatively common, especially in technical industries that put workers in dangerous environments, like engineering and construction. In 2017, almost three million U.S. workers suffered a non-fatal injury at work.
Keep reading for some helpful advice on exactly what to do after you’re injured at work.
What to Do After an Injury at Work
Sustaining an injury at work can put a lot of stress on you and your family. The most important thing you can do is to have a plan in place, so you know the proper paperwork to file and how to get the benefits the law allows you.
Here are seven things you need to do after you’re injured at work:
- Have a Plan in Place
Your employer is required by law to have a plan in place in case of workplace injuries, and you should have a similar plan for yourself.
How will you pay bills if you can’t work? Do you have an emergency fund? Do you have contacts at your insurance company? These are all questions you should be able to answer. Make sure you plan for the worst-case scenario, so you and your family are never caught off guard.
- Report the Injury Immediately
Don’t let months pass before you tell your employer that you’re hurt. If you don’t report your injury within 90 days after it happens, you might not get the compensation you deserve.
- Know Your Rights
You might feel hopeless after an injury, but always remember that you have rights. Your employer can’t just get rid of you. Make sure you research your rights before you’re injured so you know when something is unfair.
- Fill Out the Necessary Paperwork
All employers are required to have worker’s compensation insurance, so you’ll need to file a claim right away.
- Get Legal Help
Not every personal injury claim will go smoothly. Sometimes you’ll have unanswered questions, or your employer will deny your injury. This scenario is when you need to meet with an attorney to see if your rights have been violated. An expert legal team will help you navigate the tricky legal system and get you the proper compensation.
- Go to a Doctor
Another item you shouldn’t delay (if possible) is getting to a doctor. When you don’t treat an injury right away, it can get even worse over time. You don’t want your injury to further prevent you from working. Make sure that you seek medical attention right away.
- Create a Plan with Your Employer
After your injury, make sure you stay in constant communication with your employer. Work with your boss to create a plan so they know when you can return to work and what you’ll be capable of doing when you’re back.
Get Expert Legal Advice Today
Even if you have a solid plan in place, sustaining an injury at work can be stressful, and you might have unanswered questions.
Contact the personal injury experts at Steigmann Law today. We offer a free consultation, so we can help you figure out your options, even if you’re worried that you can’t afford an attorney.