If you have been injured at work, you may wonder what you should do next. Taking the right steps after an injury is important to ensure that you are protected and that your rights are upheld.
The process of reporting an injury and filing a claim can be confusing and overwhelming. To make things easier, we have compiled a list of the top 5 mistakes to avoid when reporting an injury at work. By familiarizing yourself with these mistakes, you can be sure that you are taking the right steps to protect yourself and your rights.
The Importance of Reporting an Injury at Work
Before we avoid the mistakes, let’s first talk about the importance of reporting an injury at work. If you have been injured on the job, you must report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
This may seem like an obvious step, but many employees hesitate to report an injury for fear of retaliation or retribution from their employer. Unfortunately, this fear is well-founded. In many cases, injured workers are met with skepticism or even hostility when they report an injury.
However, it is important to remember that you have rights as an injured worker. There are laws to protect you from retaliation, and you should not hesitate to exercise your rights.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Reporting an Injury at Work
- Not Reporting the Injury Right Away
One of the most important things you can do after an injury is to report it to your employer as soon as possible. Many employees mistake waiting to report an injury, hoping the symptoms will go away.
However, it is important to remember that the sooner you report an injury, the easier it will be to get the medical treatment you need.
- Not Seeking Medical Treatment
Another common mistake employees make failing to seek medical treatment for their injuries. Many injured workers believe they can tough it out and that their injuries will heal independently.
However, this is only sometimes the case. Injured workers often need professional medical treatment to recover from their injuries. By failing to seek medical treatment, you could be putting your health at risk.
- Not Keeping Accurate Records
If you have been injured at work, keeping accurate records of your injury and recovery is important. This includes keeping track of all medical appointments, tests, and treatments.
In addition, you should also keep a record of any lost wages or other financial losses you have suffered as a result of your injury. These records will be essential if you file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
- Not Following Your Doctor’s Orders
Once you have been injured, it is important to follow your doctor’s orders. This includes medical treatment, physical therapy, or other rehabilitation recommendations.
Many injured employees make the mistake of failing to follow their doctor’s orders. This can lead to a delay in the healing process and may even make your injuries worse.
- Not Getting a Lawyer
You should strongly consider getting a lawyer if you have been injured at work. Workers’ compensation law is complex, and you will likely need legal assistance to navigate the process.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and will fight to get you the benefits you deserve.
Don’t make the mistake of trying to handle your workers’ compensation claim on your own. Get a lawyer to help you through the process and protect your rights.
- How to Avoid Making Those Mistakes?
In short, the best way to avoid making these mistakes is to be prepared. Educate yourself on your rights as an injured worker and learn as much as you can about the workers’ compensation process.
In addition, it is always a good idea to consult with a lawyer before acting. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and help you avoid making any mistakes.
If you or someone you know has been injured at work, it is important to know what to do and what not to do to receive the compensation you deserve. Do not assume that your employer will take care of everything or that you do not need an attorney. The first step is to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your case. At Pistiolas Law call us at (844) 414-1768, we will review your case for free and provide a free consultation.
