Uncertainty and stress are common reactions to a workplace accident. You might be feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the extent of your injuries or whether they can pay for medical care.
Some workers employ a wait-and-see attitude after an accident. However, this kind of philosophy often leads to an unfortunate outcome. Be aware of your company’s policy on work injuries, and make note of the following important steps if you find yourself with an injury.
Four Critical Steps to Take if Injured at Work
Once an injury has occurred, you have a small window of time to report it to your employer and take appropriate actions to protect yourself. Failure to do so may risk not only compensation but also your employment. Here are four steps you should take if you’ve been injured in the workplace.
Report It: If you’ve been injured in an accident, immediately report the incident to your immediate supervisor. It’s okay—even advisable—to get assistance from an accident attorney or worker’s compensation lawyer when filling out the accident report. Make sure you or your employer files that claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) if you work in Ohio.
Keep Detailed Records. Compile and keep written notes that document details about the accident and the injuries that have resulted. More specifically, gather relevant information like the date, time, and location of the incident. Include names of witnesses or involved employees. Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries, and keep copies of all reports filed with the Ohio BWC.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine at the time, go to a medical professional for a thorough evaluation. It’s not always possible to accurately assess the extent of your injuries at the time of an accident. Also, additional medical issues could manifest later.
Hire an Attorney: Seeking workers’ compensation and dealing with other legal complexities of an injury claim can be stressful. Consider hiring a skilled workers’ comp lawyer to guide you through and explain each stage of the process.
Find an Experienced Legal Advocate for Your Accident
After a workplace injury, taking swift and documented steps is crucial. Doing so will help protect your rights and make seeking fair workers’ compensation easier. You also don’t need to navigate this process alone. Seeking professional advice is critical, and our team at Clements, Taylor, Butkovich & Cohen, LPA, Co., is here for you. If you’ve been injured at work, contact us for an initial consultation.