In 2019, there were 2.8 million nonfatal on-the-job accidents reported to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Regardless of what industry you work in, there’s always the risk that you’ll get hurt performing your job duties. This can be scary and stressful. Many people worry about lost wages and medical bills.
In the United States, if you’re injured at work, your employer must cover most, if not all, of your costs related to the accident. You’ll do this by filing a workers’ compensation claim.
If you’re hurt at work, there are some important steps you should take to be sure you’re getting the compensation you deserve.
Report Your Injury
The most important thing you should do if you’re injured on the job is to report the accident to your supervisor right away. There are laws regarding how quickly you must do this so the sooner the better.
In some cases, you will need to make the report on the same day. In other cases, you’ll have a few days to file a report. The bottom line is that you should let your employer know as soon as possible that you’ve been hurt.
File a Workers Compensation Claim
To be entitled to reimbursement for medical costs and lost wages, you will need to file a workers’ compensation claim.
This alerts your employer and its insurance company that you’ve been hurt. A claim typically goes through the court system in the state you live in. Once the claim is filed, you are entitled to certain rights.
Understand Your Rights
To get the most out of your workers’ compensation claim, it’s vital to understand what rights you’re eligible for. That way you get the full amount owed to you as a result of your injury.
Your rights include being able to see a doctor to address any short or long-term issues stemming from your accident.
You also have the right to return to work once you’re cleared by your physician. If you need modifications to your job duties, this is also a right that you have.
If you cannot return to work, whether temporarily or permanently, you are entitled to some form of disability payment.
If, at any time, you disagree with a decision made by the courts, you have the right to appeal.
Finally, you have the right to be represented by a lawyer. This person can help you navigate the system and work through each step of the process.
Hire a Lawyer
If you suffer a workplace injury, having a lawyer on your side is valuable. A dedicated workers’ compensation attorney knows the ins and outs of the system and can help you work through it.
The right lawyer can make or break your case so make sure you understand how to pick one. You should trust the attorney you choose and have faith that he or she will help you win your case.
When You’re Injured at Work
Being injured at work can be scary and stressful. You are probably worried about your job and earning a paycheck.
Hiring a lawyer can help you get through each step in the process and win your case.
Check out all of our blog posts for advice about all aspects of your life. We’re here to help.
