A workplace injury can happen at any time, disrupting your career and your life. Fortunately, you may be able to receive workers’ compensation benefits to help with your medical expenses and lost wages.
When you get hurt at work, it is important to act as quickly as possible to improve your chances of making a full physical recovery and receiving just compensation for your injury.
Notify your employer immediately
Injured workers sometimes hesitate to report the injury, not wanting to cause a fuss. If you have just sustained a workplace injury, you generally need to report the incident to your employer within 20 days. Failure to do so may result in your claim being denied.
Seek medical attention right away
The extent of an injury is not always clear right away, so prompt medical treatment is essential to make sure that you receive proper treatment and that your injury does not worsen. However, there is also a legal reason to see a doctor as soon as possible after a workplace accident.
Seeking immediate medical attention can improve your chances of a successful workers’ compensation claim. If you delay seeing a doctor, the insurance company may use this as evidence that your injury must not have been serious or that the workplace accident was not the true cause of your injury. Without a timely medical report, you may not have sufficient evidence to demonstrate the validity of your claim.
If you have sustained a workplace injury, time is of the essence. Workers’ compensation benefits may be available to help cover your expenses, and quick action on your part is critical.