Each year, the private sector of the American economy experiences about 2.8 million nonfatal workplace accidents and injuries. Even if you only tweaked your back lifting something heavy, an injury can harm you for many days, and even months.
Whatever your injury, working through it could leave you with a debilitating injury or disorder later in life. Nothing is worse than staying home from work because you’ve injured yourself. Doing proper first aid and returning to the workplace as soon as possible is crucial.
Fortunately, getting injured on the job doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Read on to learn what to do if you’re injured at work.
If You’re Injured on the Job, Report It to Your Supervisor Immediately
This is important for many reasons. First, your employer needs to be aware of the injury so that they can provide you with the proper medical treatment and care.
Secondly, reporting the injury will ensure that your employer is aware of the incident. This will help them take appropriate steps to prevent future accidents. Finally, reporting an injury will help to protect your legal rights in case you need to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Follow Your Company’s Guidelines for Seeking Workers’ Compensation
This will ensure that you are able to get the benefits you are entitled to and that your claim is processed. You will need to provide detailed information about the injury and how it occurred, and you may undergo a medical examination. Once approved, you will receive benefits for your lost wages and medical expenses.
You might also want to check if you are qualified for disability insurance. This type of insurance provides benefits to employees who are unable to work because of an injury sustained while on the job.
It can help to cover lost wages and medical expenses. It can also provide some financial security to employees who are out of work due to an injury.
Keep Detailed Records of Your Injury
This includes dates, times, locations, and a description of the injury. If you require medical attention, be sure to keep copies of all medical records.
It is also important to keep track of any lost wages or work hours as a result of the injury. This information will be important if you need to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Stay in Communication With Your Employer
This way, you can keep them updated on your status and ensure that you’re still able to meet your job requirements. If your injury prevents you from performing your duties, be sure to let your employer know as soon as possible. This will help them make the necessary accommodations.
Knowing What to Do During an Injury
Your best course of action if you are injured on the job is to immediately report the incident to your supervisor. From there, your employer will likely start a workers’ compensation claim on your behalf.
It is important to cooperate with your employer and follow their guidelines for filing a claim. This will ensure that you receive the maximum benefits to which you are entitled.
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