What To Do After Accident Or Injury At Work

Many workplaces have policies, procedures, and programs intended to prevent the risk of work-related accidents or injuries. Yet accidents and injuries often do occur on the job. When life happens and you find yourself hurt at work, knowing what to do afterward will help ensure you get the treatment and compensation you deserve.

Report Incident To Supervisor

One of the most important things to do after suffering an injury at work is to report it. Not reporting an accident can allow your employer to deny you medical treatment and benefits for missed time from work. Even if medical attention isn’t immediately necessary or necessary at all, reporting a non-injury causing accident may prompt your employer to implement new safety measures in order to prevent recurrences.

If you are injured, you have a narrow window of time to report an accident in order to be covered under workers’ compensation. Report any accident in the workplace immediately to your supervisor either in writing or in the presence of a fellow employee who will act as your witness. Then it is up to your employer to file a workers' comp claim on your behalf and up to you to follow up. Remember you are entitled to a copy of the claim filed by your employer, so ask for it.

Obtain Medical Care

This should go without saying, but if your work-related injury or accident is an emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency room ASAP. If you’re not seriously injured, still see a doctor as soon as possible following an accident. Ask your employer whether you are required to visit a specific physician or medical center or if you can see your own doctor. 

Depending on the state in which your claim is filed, there is a chance workers' compensation won't pay for you to see your own doctor. Many states, like Florida, require you to see a physician chosen by your employer or your employer’s workers’ comp insurance provider. In most situations, the insurance company has the right to choose the physician who will treat you. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to seek a second opinion from your own doctor, which may be covered by your insurance.

Consult an Attorney

Should you choose to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, you will want to seek counsel from an attorney with experience handling workers' compensation claims. These insurance companies have extensive experience negotiating and settling claims, and it would be foolish for you to undertake negotiations without qualified counsel.

Remember, any injury caused by the carelessness of a third-party while on the job can make you eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party in addition to the workers’ compensation claim.

For help determining what benefits you may be entitled to receive, contact the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. at 407.645.2195 for a free consultation.