Work-related injuries happen all the time. If you do heavy labor for a living, you are always on your feet and doing dangerous tasks.
Even white-collar workers can suffer on-the-job injuries like repetitive stress injuries.
One simple mistake by a coworker or boss could cause severe injuries like broken bones, cuts, or infections.
If you were hurt at work because of someone else’s carelessness, a worker’s comp lawyer could help you deal with the worker’s comp insurance company and get paid for your injuries.
But many people don’t plan for work-related injuries, which can lead to mistakes if you’re ever injured at work.
Injured workers need to know what to do and what not to do after a workplace accident.
In the article below, we’ll talk about what to do if you get hurt at work.
What Is Considered A Work Injury?
A worker’s compensation claim is based on several factors, including whether the employee was injured on the job or off duty.
If you are hurt while performing duties outside of your normal responsibilities, it typically does not qualify as a work injury.
However, it could still be considered a work injury if you suffer an accident while commuting to work or doing something related to your job.
If you sustain a work injury, workers comp benefits cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments if your injury keeps you from working.
In some cases, employers can be held liable for injuries sustained by employees.
This liability extends to third parties such as contractors, subcontractors, and others who perform work for the employer.
In addition to being covered under compensation laws, employers are generally protected from lawsuits related to workplace injuries unless there is negligence involved.
Negligence occurs when someone fails to use reasonable care and skill to fulfill their obligations.
Typical Workers’ Compensation Coverage Criteria
Workers’ compensation coverage typically applies to employees who are hurt while performing their regular duties.
However, there are exceptions, such as when employees work outside their normal hours or perform tasks that are not part of their job description.
If you’re injured during a break, you might be able to claim workers’ comp.
If you’re injured while traveling for business, you may also be able to file a worker’s compensation claim.
What Should You Do After Being Injured At Work?
Report Your Injuries as Soon as Possible
You’ll want to inform your employer immediately if you’re injured while working.
An extended period of time between your injury and when it’s reported could damage your claim.
There are several reasons why this is important, including helping your employer decide whether or not to make a workers’ compensation claim.
In most situations, you could lose your right to benefits under state law if you fail to notify your employer within 30 days of being injured.
The Workers’ Compensation Law requires employers to provide medical care and pay temporary disability benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries.
An employee who receives such benefits is entitled to additional compensation, depending on how long they are unable to work.
Seek Medical Help
It is essential to seek medical treatment after a work accident, even if you don’t seem injured.
A recent study found that nearly half of Americans delay seeking treatment for injuries and illnesses.
And it doesn’t matter whether you’re talking about minor aches and pains or serious conditions like broken bones.
Take care of yourself, so you have the best chance of getting better.
Seek medical attention and explain to your doctor what happened, including if you have a pre-existing condition.
Your employer or their insurance company must pay for your medical care.
But don’t just find your doctors for workers’ comp without telling anyone.
To ensure you’re in the system and that your health care is covered, you must visit a doctor approved by your employer’s workers’ comp benefits.
File An Accident Report
Reporting an accident on the job protects you and other employees from future injury.
You must report accidents immediately to your employer.
If you do not file a timely report, you could lose your ability to collect workers’ compensation benefits.
Most state laws require you to report an accident involving personal injury or property damage, so do so immediately.
Damages You Could Be Compensated for if You Were Injured at Work
Workers’ compensation laws are meant to help pay injured workers while they get better from injuries they got at work.
Worker’s compensation gives you access to four types of compensation: wage replacement, medical treatment, vocational rehabilitation, and other benefits.
There are individual damages that you can claim compensation for.
Legal consultation can help you assess what damages you may be entitled to.
You could go after some of the following damages through worker’s compensation:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
- Disability costs
Consult A Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If your employer fails to pay worker’s compensation benefits, it could affect your ability to return to work and move on with your life.
Seeking legal representation will help determine whether your case qualifies for benefits under the law.
An attorney can explain your options, including whether you qualify for additional benefits such as vocational rehabilitation or permanent partial impairment.
You may be able to file a civil lawsuit against your employer for damages.
Your lawyer will review your situation and advise you about your legal options.
People with attorneys almost always have better outcomes than people without.
Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is a top firm with years of experience in personal injury cases like workers’ compensation.
We are here to protect your rights and stop people from taking advantage of you.
So set up a free consultation immediately so that a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer can look at your case.
Our lawyers will help you get the most money you are owed in your worker’s compensation claim.
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