Nobody likes to think about it, but on-the-job injuries happen all the time. And while nobody wants to get hurt at work, it’s important that you know what to do if something ever does happen to you while you’re on the clock.
Knowing how to handle an injury on the job can help prevent you from getting into a situation that can be hard to get out of. This is especially important if you have a family who is depending on you to care for them.
So what is the first step you should take if you’re injured on the job? And what are some common mistakes that you need to know about so you can avoid them?
We’ve got the breakdown you’re looking for in this article!
Now then, let’s get started!
1. Get Medical Assistance If Needed
If you suffer an injury on the job, the first thing you need to do is to get medical assistance. Don’t worry about things like insurance and job security, as your health and overall wellbeing are of the utmost importance.
A pro tip? Consider calling an ambulance to handle your transportation to a medical facility. Doing so will allow you to have a record of when the injury occurred, as well as prevent any of your colleagues from having to get involved.
2. Inform Your Employer of Your Injury
While you’re waiting for the ambulance to arrive, go ahead and inform your employer of what happened. Let them know exactly what occurred, as well as when it occurred, and record the entire conversation using your smartphone.
If there were any witnesses, get their testimony on record as well, just in case you need it at a later date. Recording all of this information while it’s fresh is crucial, too, as you want to get all of the details as accurate as possible.
Be prepared for your employer to be somewhat upset with the situation. With that being said, don’t let their anger make you uncomfortable or uneasy about the situation.
You and your health are still the most important thing in that current moment.
Once you’ve arrived at a medical facility, be sure to tell your doctor that the injury was work-related. Have them document this fact on all paperwork, too, so you have it for your own personal records.
3. Inform Your Health Care Provider of Your Injury
Once you’ve received medical attention, and you’re okay to do so, inform your health care provider of your injury. Even if you don’t need your insurance to cover the injury, letting them know something has happened is a good idea.
You’re also going to want to confirm that your employer has begun the process of contacting their own workers’ compensation insurance company.
Again, your employer may be difficult to deal with during this time. With that being said, it’s your personal health, and your life that is being affected, so don’t feel like you’re in the wrong by asking questions.
4. Start Documenting Everything Immediately
We touched on this earlier in this article, but you’re going to want to start documenting everything as soon as you’re able to do so. Doing this yourself is a great way to protect yourself and ensure that you’re being treated fairly throughout the process.
A pro tip? Get copies of anything and everything related to the injury. Keep these documents in one place, organized, so you can access them easily.
Also, start documenting all your missed days of work and out-of-pocket expenses you’ve had due to the injury.
That information is going to be extremely important should you decide to pursue legal action down the line. And again, you want to record those details while they’re fresh in your mind.
5. Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Even if you don’t plan on taking legal action, it’s a good idea to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer within 48 hours of your injury. Doing so will allow you to get a professional opinion on what you should do, which is always helpful during confusing times.
Also, having something already started early can help speed up the process should you decide to pursue legal action later on down the line.
Make sure to do tons of research on the best workers compensation lawyer in your area. Read online reviews and pick a lawyer that you think will help protect you and your family.
How to Handle an Injury on the Job: A Guide
Well, there you have it! A guide on how to handle an injury on the job! So, as long as you keep these ideas in mind, you should be able to protect both yourself and your family.
Remember, if you need medical assistance, do not hesitate to call 911. Once you’ve got yourself taken care of, alert your employer and start documenting everything. Record keeping is crucial, so don’t be afraid to ask for multiple copies of any and every document.
Let your own insurance provider know that you’ve been hurt at work and you’ve had to get medical attention. Also, contact a workers’ compensation lawyer within 48 hours of your injury, even if you don’t think you’re going to take legal action.
Last but not least, take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Your health is the most important thing, so don’t be afraid to take any steps necessary to make sure you’re okay.
Injured on the job? Looking for more legal advice? Check out our blog!
