Workplace injuries are, unfortunately, quite common. While some work environments are substantially more dangerous than others, slips, trips, and falls can happen just about anywhere.
Fortunately, you are entitled to compensation if you have been injured at work. Even so, it is crucial to rely on a professional employment lawyer to get the most out of your compensation claim. There are a range of services available to employees that will make the process of claiming compensation a lot more straightforward.
With that said, here are the essential steps you must take to claim compensation for a workplace injury.
Visit The Emergency Room
The first and most crucial step of the process is to visit the emergency room as soon as possible. You must receive medical treatment to confirm and treat your injury. Not only does your well-being weigh on medical attention, but so does the compensation claim.
Report The Injury
Once you have received treatment, the next step is to report the injury to your employer. There’s a good chance your employer already has specific procedures in place for employees to report workplace injuries, even if you aren’t employed in a risky environment.
Complete A Workplace Injury Report
After calling, emailing, or even texting your employer to notify them of the injury, you will probably need to fill out a workplace incident report that details the injury, witnesses, and any suspicions of misconduct or negligence. If you are unable to gather witness statements due to workplace conflict, you can cite the details without statements.
Consult An Employment Lawyer
Consulting an employment lawyer is one of the best things you can do when claiming compensation for an injury. Not only will an experienced lawyer know how to maximize your payout and benefits, but you will also be able to focus on your recovery while your lawyer guides you through the legal processes. Moreover, your lawyer will also ensure you are fairly treated and safeguarded from potential retaliation.
File A Worker’s Compensation Claim
Employers are sometimes not required to have worker’s compensation insurance policies, but most employers do. In this case, you must file a claim with their insurance company rather than with your employer. Regardless, your lawyer will lead the way and assist with filing the claim to the relevant entity.
Follow Medical Advice
You must commit to medical advice if your injuries require follow-up consultations and a lengthy treatment plan. Even if you feel that your injuries will heal on their own, avoiding follow-up care can put your compensation claim in jeopardy, as your injuries will seem less legitimate.
Trust Your Lawyer
Sometimes, compensation claims are settled quickly. Other times, the process can be long and stressful. But it’s essential to trust your legal representative has your best interests at heart. Your lawyer will negotiate a higher payout if a settlement offer is too low. At the same time, you won’t need to worry about unfair dismissal, lost wages, or retaliation. Employment lawyers know how to handle delicate workplace matters.
Whether you have slipped and fallen, been struck by a falling object, or injured on the job in another way, you are entitled to fair compensation that covers all of your financial losses.