Approximately 160 million work-related illnesses are reported worldwide every year, according to the International Labor Organization. Workplace injuries caused by overexertion or contact with heavy equipment can limit your ability to work. Meanwhile, exposure to hazardous substances will put you at risk of contracting severe health conditions such as respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and cancer.
While it is impossible to predict when an accident will occur on the job, it is essential to prepare how to best handle the situation beforehand. We all know that personal injury is one of the most common reasons for businesses seeking legal help to protect their rights. Therefore, in the event you fall victim to an accident at work, hiring an attorney should be a top priority. Nonetheless, there are steps you need to follow to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve to cover for medical expenses, injuries, and lost income.
Report an Accident Immediately
Although most employers have workers’ compensation insurance coverage, some don’t offer the best policies. Each company has terms and policies that dictate a time frame for reporting work-related accidents and injuries. Failure to inform your boss about a mishap within the set deadline can lead to a compensation dispute. You could also lose the right to demand settlement benefits.
Notifying your supervisor about an injury following internal procedures will not prevent conflict between you and your employer. In fact, this move protects you against a manager who might claim your damages result from an accident that happened outside of the workplace.
Seek Urgent Treatment
Getting the appropriate treatment will help you prevent severe health damage and speed up recovery. Besides, you will be required to present an official medical report when negotiating a fair personal injury settlement amount. So, make sure to inform your doctor the injuries result from a workplace incident. Your physician will then document your physical condition and restrictions depending on the severity of bodily damages.
If possible, take photos of the fractured body parts to back up your medical records. A rule of thumb is never to delay treatment as it could result in a compensation disagreement. In most cases, insurance companies deny claims arguing an accident never occurred if a claimant lacks proper medical documentation.
Keep a Record of Expenses and Missed Days of Work
Ideally, workers’ compensation would cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, you are likely to receive other types of workers’ comp benefits depending on the type and severity of your injuries or illness. It is worth noting each case is unique. If, for instance, you lose wages following an accident that has limited your ability to work, then you are eligible to receive compensation for missed days of work.
You may also receive a settlement for future expenses if you miss a chance to win a promotion or bonus. For you to secure a fair amount for any of these issues, you need to keep track of your expenses, lost days of work, and missed career opportunities.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
According to fvflawfirm.com, dealing with a personal injury claim can be stressful and confusing without proper representation. A lack of legal skills can also make navigating a workplace injury claim process more challenging. Naturally, workplace claims involve conflicting interests of an injured or sick worker and employer. For these reasons, you need the help of a personal injury lawyer to secure a fair settlement to cover your healthcare expenses and the loss of income. By consulting a skilled lawyer, you can rest assured of receiving professional legal advice customized to fit your current situation.
Personal injury lawyers are familiar with workers’ compensation benefit laws , and they use their expertise to protect their client’s rights. Your attorney will help you file a personal injury claim and recommend the best ways to collect evidence to support your claims. They will also take the burden of negotiating a reasonable amount of settlement with insurance companies so that you may focus on improving your health.
Issue a Written Grievance to Your Employer
A workplace accident may occur due to a slippery surface, defective equipment, heavy machinery, and exposure to toxic substances. If any of these hazards result in injuries, employees are entitled to file a complaint to their manager. Filing a grievance letter is the best approach to address your safety concerns. After submitting your complaints, your employer may decide to enhance safety or dismiss your claims. If they disagree with your grievances, you may file an employment claim or resign. However, make sure to discuss your options with a lawyer before deciding on the next step..
Regardless of how minor a workplace injury might seem, it will affect your health and finances. That is why you should always report injuries, seek medication, and consult a lawyer should the event arise. Following the right steps will increase your chances of receiving a fair compensation for expenses caused by work-related injuries or disease.
