What You Should Do After Getting Injured at Work
On Behalf of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa | November 6, 2022 | Workers' Compensation
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employers reported 2.7 million illnesses and injuries in 2020. In the unfortunate event that you suffer an injury or illness at work, there are certain things you should do to ensure that you comply with the workers’ compensation laws and protect your claim for proper compensation.
Report Your Injury ASAP
Inform your manager, supervisor, or employer about your illness or injury right away. If you can’t inform anyone because you are receiving medical treatment, do so as soon as you’re able. Under the law, injured employees must report their workplace injury to their employers within 30 days of the injury date.
Get Medical Treatment Immediately
Even if you think you sustained a minor injury, get medical attention right away to confirm the extent and specific nature of your injury. The authorized medical provider of your employer or their insurance carrier must provide all necessary and reasonable medical treatment, care, and prescriptions associated with your injury.
Tell the doctor exactly what happened, so they can record your condition accurately and give proper guidance on the treatments you need and when you can get back to work.
Fill Out a Work Injury Report
Even if your manager or employer tells you that you don’t need to complete a work injury report, you must do so. This report will serve as an official document of the workplace accident and injury. Give as many details as you can and make sure to include the events or conditions leading to the accident.
What to Do If You Are Having Issues With Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you believe your employer isn’t meeting their responsibilities, discuss your case with a West Palm Beach workers’ compensation attorney right away. To ensure you receive proper compensation:
- Follow your doctor’s orders. Following your doctor’s treatment recommendations and recovery guidelines will place a vital role in the amount of compensation you receive. Go to all your doctor’s appointments and stay in contact with your medical providers.
- Avoid making official statements about your injury. If possible, don’t give out an official statement to the insurance claims adjuster or your employer before you have had a chance to talk to your attorney about your case. Your attorney will teach you how to handle all communications related to your claim to ensure that you don’t accidentally say anything that may compromise your claim.
- Leverage your legal rights. Keep in mind that your employer cannot reprimand, threaten, coerce, or fire you for filing a workers’ comp claim. If you suspect your employer is threatening to fire you or intimidating you in any way because you filed a claim, tell your attorney immediately.
Seek Legal Guidance From a Seasoned West Palm Beach Workers’ Compensation Attorney Now
Have you recently suffered an injury at work, or are you having any issues with a workers’ compensation-related dispute? Either way, the West Palm Beach workers’ compensation attorney of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa are ready to help you navigate the complex claims process. Arrange your free case review with our West Palm Beach workers’ compensation attorney by reaching us online or dialing 561-478-2500.