Workplace injuries are an unfortunate reality that can become legally complicated if you’ve never experienced one before. Discover how to protect yourself after a work injury, should you ever encounter an accident at work.
Immediately Report the Injury
Once you’re physically able, report the incident to your supervisor and employer. Cover all the specifics of the accident, and don’t forget to include your company’s HR department on the thread as necessary. A few items to include in your report of the injury include:
- When the accident happened
- Where the accident happened and what exactly occurred just before, during, after
- Names of any nearby witnesses
- Any photos or video files of the incident
Keep a personal copy of this initial report for future reference, so there’s no misinterpretation of your report to your supervisor down the line.
Seek Medical Attention
Go to a medical professional promptly after the injury. Seeing a doctor briefly after the incident and receiving documentation from them will help verify that the injuries were, indeed, sustained from an accident at work. Not only is it a good idea to see a doctor immediately to strengthen your case, but also to protect your health.
Complete a Workers’ Compensation Form
Request and file your employer’s workers’ compensation form. Make a copy of your completed form and return it to your employer. They should have the completed paperwork returned to you in 24 hours.
Acquire Necessary Funding for Medical, Living, and Legal Expenses
If you are unsure of how to protect yourself after a work injury due to the financial ramifications of legal care, you may delay filing a claim. However, this delay may impact the outcome of the case. For folks that are under or uninsured, covering all the ongoing medical, legal, and living expenses while you recover isn’t exactly easy.
Luckily, pre-settlement funding for personal injury plaintiffs helps victims of accidents, work-related or not, upkeep with the expenses following the incident. With adequate funding, you can receive the medical care and legal attention you need without fretting over costs or feeling you need to postpone your case.