If you have been injured, you can take steps to ensure you receive proper compensation. These steps include filing a workers’ compensation claim, reporting the injury to your supervisor, and seeing a doctor. Consider consulting with an attorney from great law offices like Law Offices of Steve Gimblin.
Report the Injury to Your Supervisor
If you have been injured on the job, the best thing you can do for yourself is report the injury to your supervisor. Even if you don’t need immediate medical attention, you can still get free treatment. You can even ask for your employer’s Workers’ Compensation insurance adjuster.
To make a claim, you’ll need a few pieces of paper. This includes an Accident Report form. You’ll also want to pick up a few other tidbits from your employer. These include a work schedule and contact info for your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer. After that, you’re on your way to getting your well-deserved compensation.
When it comes to the best way to report your fumble, you’ll need to know your company’s guidelines. Many employers have strict deadlines for reporting accidents. Failing to do so can have serious consequences. For example, if you fail to report an accident promptly, you could be suspended without pay.
See a Doctor
Getting medical attention right away is important to help your recovery. Seeking treatment promptly is also the best way to avoid partial liability for medical costs.
A doctor’s diagnosis can determine whether you are fit to work or need to rest. If your injury isn’t severe enough to warrant hospitalization, you may be able to return to light-duty work or transition to a new position.
Seeking the advice of a physician can be a smart move, especially if you are filing a workers’ compensation claim. Your medical provider will know the most effective ways to document your injuries and explain how they impact your ability to do your job. They might also refer you to a specialist who can offer a more comprehensive and detailed treatment plan.
For example, a good physician will document your injury using a detailed medical report. The report should include your doctor’s opinion and the appropriate treatment.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
When an employee is injured at work, they must file a workers’ compensation claim as soon as possible. This is to ensure the timely receiving of benefits. It is also important to get medical attention right away.
Workers’ compensation insurance companies are supposed to investigate and make a decision within 30 days. They will then contact the injured worker. However, they can choose to withhold or deny the claim. If the company does withhold or deny the claim, the worker can appeal the decision to the Workers’ Compensation Board.
After the insurance company has investigated the case, the employee will receive a copy of the insurer’s form. This information will be used to determine if the worker is eligible for benefits.
The insurance company will then submit the report electronically. An insurance company representative will also visit the injured worker. Depending on the nature of the injury, the worker may be required to sign a statement.
Retain a Lawyer
If you are injured in an accident, you may need to hire a lawyer to help you. Injuries can be devastating and take a toll on your health, as well as your finances. You need to know your rights, whether you are hurt at work or at home. By hiring an attorney, you can fight for the compensation you deserve. Choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference in your case.
Usually, you will have to pay a retainer to your lawyer to secure his services. A retainer agreement details the obligations of both you and your attorney. It should also include the costs involved and the duration of the contract. You should understand how much your legal expenses will be before signing any contract. This will allow you to budget for your legal needs.