After being injured in a workplace accident, it can be confusing and overwhelming to know what steps to take to protect your right to workers’ compensation benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explain the important first steps you need to take to ensure that you receive the medical care you need, as well as any benefits you’re entitled to under the law.
Step 1: Report the Injury to your Employer
Under the law, you are required to notify your supervisor or manager within 30 days of your accident or from the first signs of an occupational illness. Reporting the injury as soon as possible after your accident is critical, as any delay could result in the denial of your claim. You should report your injury even if you believe it’s minor or if you’re unsure if it’s work-related. If you fail to report your injury within the required timeframe, you may not be eligible for benefits
Step 2: Fill out a Workplace Injury Report
Employers are required to keep workplace injury reports available for employees by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. When you’ve been injured, it’s important to demand to fill out the report, even when your employer says it’s not necessary, and get a copy for your records. The report will include information about the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and any witnesses. This information will be useful in your claim and can help your lawyer prove that your injuries were work-related.
Step 3: Seek Medical Care
Regardless of how minor you believe your injury is, you need to immediately seek medical treatment for your injuries. It’s essential to receive proper medical care to ensure that you recover as fully as possible from your injury. It’s also important to document your injuries and treatment, as this information can be used as evidence in your claim. If there are any disputes with your employer’s insurance company about whether your injuries were work-related, having medical records will be invaluable.
Step 4: File a Claim for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
You should submit your claim for workers’ compensation benefits as soon as possible after your accident. Your employer should provide you with the necessary forms to complete, but it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney before submitting your claim. Your lawyer can help you complete the forms accurately and ensure that you’re providing all the necessary information to support your claim.
Step 5: Retain an Attorney
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the complexities of filing your claim and ensure that you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to under the law. Hiring legal counsel soon after you sustain injuries can help protect your rights and ensure that your claim is handled appropriately. Your attorney can help you navigate the claims process, communicate with your employer and their insurance company, and represent you in any hearings or appeals related to your claim.
In some instances, your claim may be denied. If this happens, it’s important to seek legal advice from an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to determine your options for appealing the denial. Your attorney can review the facts of your case, identify any legal issues, and help you develop a strategy for challenging the denial and pursuing the benefits you deserve.
Roden Law – Your Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Our team of talented, knowledgeable, and experienced workers’ compensation attorneys is ready and waiting to help you pursue your claim. At Roden Law, we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you need and deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and plan a path forward toward a brighter future.