Injuries hurt and they can hurt worse in case of an unexpected event at work that can lead you in need of a good legal representation. When it comes to injuries at the workplace, some of the most common injuries are back injuries, carpal tunnel, slip-and-fall injuries, etc.
The real question is what to do if you get injured at work.
Understand Not All Injuries Qualify for a Claim
Usually, when you get injured at work, you think about a worker’s compensation claim. You should discuss your injury case with one of the best workers’ compensation attorneys to assess whether or not it is a serious enough claim to get involved and file a worker’s compensation claim.
For instance, a simple back strain that resolves quickly might not be a good idea to get the lawyer involved. But – if the strain doesn’t resolve right away – it could definitely be something more serious. On that note, if you are hurt at your work, there are several things you should do.
Report the Injury
Now, if you get injured at work, the most important thing to do is that you must report your injury to your employer right away. If the employer isn’t around, it is your job to report your injury to HR or your supervisor immediately.
Typically, there is a requirement that you can file a report in ninety days – but – we never recommend you count ninety days and wait until the last day. To avoid any complications, you should report that claim immediately.
Report the Injury Even If You Feel Fine
Initially, you might feel like you are fine and that you haven’t sustained a major injury, and you can go to the nurse and get a painkiller. However, even though you might feel fine, you still need to report the injury because oftentimes time, a slight injury becomes a bad injury, and if you report the injury later, your claim can get denied.
Understand the Rules
Sometimes, people are hesitant to report their injury as they feel like they will make their employer their enemy – but – you should know that reporting an injury isn’t about suing the employer. When you file a report, and you file a worker’s compensation claim, you are basically saying that you got injured on the job and that you need medical care.
If the injury ends up being a more serious injury that requires surgery, then you definitely need an attorney.
But – keep in mind that you wont get fired for filing the claim, which is why you shouldn’t be afraid of filing a claim.
Here is the thing – if you are hurt while you are on your job and you don’t file a claim – but you later bring the claim, then you will have a problem.
Call a Lawyer
If you are in a situation where you got injured at work but are unsure about your next steps, it is in your best interest to call a lawyer and get a consultation about your case. The professional attorney will be in the best position to guide you about the next steps that will also protect your rights.