While it is not always possible to avoid experiencing an injury on the job, there are specific safety measures that you should be taking each day to reduce the likeliness. However, if you have been injured while on duty, you should handle the matter correctly to ensure that you are fairly treated and justly compensated. Dealing with your unpleasant experience can be understandably overwhelming and frustrating as these types of claims can take weeks or even months to be settled. It is essential to be fully prepared to proceed with filing for a workman’s compensation claim. Here are the crucial steps that you should take after being injured in the workplace.
Reporting Your Injury
The very first thing you should do is report your injury. It is crucial to communicate the injury as soon as possible as many employers and worker’s compensation companies may attempt to reject the claim based on tardiness.
Specify With Your Health Practitioner That The Injury Is Work-Related
It is vital to your claim that your medical records clearly state that the injury is work-related. Rather than assuming your doctor will simply know this information, you should clarify every detail of the incident with your healthcare practitioner the very first time you are seen to. Neglecting this would plainly put the outcome of your claim in jeopardy.
Written Notice
It would be wise to present your employer with a written notice informing them that you will be returning to work as soon as you have properly recovered. Failing to provide written notice may be considered absence without notice which would likely have a negative impact on your employment status as well as your compensation claim.
Total Up Your Expenses That Resulted From The Injury
You should keep a diary of all days at work missed as a result of the injury, while also jotting down and keeping a record of each and every expense that has occurred. This means you should keep all medical bills and even listing your travel expenses as this should be taken into account for your compensation. Keeping track of all your out-of-pocket expenses is vital for fair compensation, although it is crucial to include proof of all receipts.
Contact A Specialized Attorney
It would be far wiser to book a consultation with a specialized workers comp attorney rather than opting for any lawyer as it would definitely benefit the outcome of your claim. Even though you may be tempted to avoid additional costs as you may feel uncertain regarding the future of your employment, you may find that you will be able to include your legal fees as an expense that resulted from the injury. Rather than attempting to deal with the legalities of the situation yourself, an attorney will be able to ensure your fair treatment and your benefits are paid out appropriately. Considering your injury may put you out of work for a lengthy period of time, you should protect your best interests by opting for legal representation.
