Injured on the Job? Follow These Steps for a Positive Outcome

Injured on the Job? Follow These Steps for a Positive Outcome

If you are injured on the job, you may be tempted to keep working because you don’t want to rock the boat.  This could jeopardize your workers’ compensation claim down the line, however.  Workers’ compensation regulations can be very tricky to navigate, and the wrong move can have significant repercussions.

Injured on the Job? Follow These Steps for a Positive Outcome

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If you are hurt in the workplace, follow these steps to ensure optimal results.

Document your injury and present it to a supervisor as soon as possible—preferably right after you get hurt.  Don’t wait for a day or two to pass by to see how you are feeling.  Make sure that your documentation is thorough and includes a description of the full scope of your injuries.

Your company should have a list of physicians that you can see about your injury.  You should be able to choose which of these doctors to consult.  Your company cannot force you to visit one specific provider.

When you see your physician for the first time, bring a list of all of the symptoms that you have experienced as a result of your injury.  It is always wise to have particulars in writing, and a list will also make sure that you don’t forget to mention something important.

After your visit, if your physician restricts your activities, do not exceed those restrictions—even if you think you are capable of more. If your doctor says that you can’t work (either temporarily or long term), do not try to take on a second job to earn extra money.  This could jeopardize your benefits.

Don’t post the particulars of your workers’ compensation case on Facebook, Instagram, or any social media platform.  Making details public could come back to bite you later.

Enlist a workers’ compensation attorney to help you understand your rights, the value of your case, and settlement options.  Talk to a workers’ compensation attorney to learn which benefits you are eligible to receive.  This may include reimbursement for lost wages, travel to and from medical appointments, and prescription medications.