Have You Been Hurt at Work? 4 Steps You Should Take

Getting injured at work can be a frightening and overwhelming process. Workers have certain rights under the law, and companies have obligations to their employees. If you have been hurt at work, you must take definitive action to preserve your rights. 

1. Complete an Accident Report

Start by notifying your supervisor and completing an incident report. This will start the process of documenting what happened and help you stay within any statute of limitations that may apply. Depending on company policies and the severity of your injuries, there may be an investigation into the accident. The information laid out in that report will play an integral role in that process. For legal aid contact attorneys for motorcycle accidents cases.

2. See a Doctor

If your injury is anything other than a scrape or bruise, you should see a doctor right away. Workers’ compensation insurance should pay for an evaluation and any care that is needed. Talk to the human resource manager about any restrictions or processes for having costs reimbursed.

3. Document Everything

Save copies of everything during this process. If you talk to someone over the phone, write down their name and title, the date and time of your conversation, and a brief summary of what was discussed. Do the same for in-person conversations, or record them if your company allows it. Save copies of all reports, medical papers, and any notices you receive. These will all be helpful if you need to pursue legal action. The personal injury attorneys based in Halifax suggest that you reveal every detail to your lawyer to help them help you better.

4. Seek Legal Counsel

If the accident was the result of gross negligence, or if your employer is refusing to cover costs associated with your care, you should seek legal counsel. An Iowa workers compensation attorney can help you secure the benefits you are entitled to. This includes medical costs and lost wages. In some cases, such as accidents resulting from negligence, you may be entitled to damages.

If you have been hurt at work, you must take action to ensure you receive the proper treatment and care. Always follow company policies and procedures, and seek legal assistance if you are unable to get the care you need to recover.