Being injured at work can be a traumatizing experience. In addition to the physical pain and healing process, you may also be facing financial challenges if you are unable to work. Even though it might seem like you are on your own, you have several legal rights that you can exercise to get the help and compensation you need. Therefore, It is important to know what they are and how to fight for them. The following steps will help you get started
Consult With An Attorney
If you have been injured at work, the first thing you should do is consult with an attorney. You will want to ensure that the attorney you see is knowledgeable in the specific area of law required. For instance, if you are a veteran injured in the line of duty, use this VA disability calculator to see what you could be entitled to and then discuss this with your military and veteran attorney. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and how to protect them. They can also advise you on whether you should file a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
Filing a claim or lawsuit may seem daunting, but an attorney can guide you through the process and help ensure that your rights are fully protected. According to legal professionals from the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C, an attorney can help you negotiate with your employer or the insurance company. Oftentimes, employers and insurance companies will try to avoid paying out benefits or compensation. An attorney can represent your interests and make sure that you receive the full amount of benefits to which you are entitled.
Report The Injury To Your Employer
To protect your legal rights, it is important to report any workplace injury as soon as possible. This includes not only injuries that occur on the job but also those that happen while traveling for work or during a company-sponsored event. Most employers have a process for reporting injuries, and you should follow their instructions closely. Be sure to include all relevant information, such as the date and time of the incident, where it occurred, and how it happened. You should also provide your contact information and contacts of any witnesses.
If you are unable to report the injury yourself, someone else may do so on your behalf. However, it is important to remember that only certain people are authorized to act on behalf of an injured worker, and you may need to grant written permission for them to do so.
Get Medical Treatment
It is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible after being injured at work. This will not only help you recover more quickly but will also help document the extent of your injuries. Keep all of your medical records and bills, as you may need them to support your workers’ compensation or personal injury claim later on. It is also a good idea to have a doctor who specializes in workers’ compensation cases. They will be familiar with the process and can help you get the treatment you need.
Gather Evidence
In any legal case, evidence is key. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be. This is especially true in cases of workplace injury. If you have been hurt on the job, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim for workers’ compensation benefits. This includes making sure to document everything related to your injury, from the date it occurred to the treatment you received. Keep copies of all medical records and bills, as well as any other documentation (such as accident reports or witness statements).
If possible, take pictures of the scene of the accident and your injuries. Be sure to get dated photos that show how bad your injuries were and how they have progressed over time. Also, gather the contact information of any witnesses to the accident. If anyone saw what happened and can provide a statement supporting your case, it could be very helpful.
File A Claim With The Workers’ Compensation Board
If you have been injured at work, you may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits. These benefits are available to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. To file a claim, you must first notify your employer of the injury and then contact the Workers’ Compensation Board. The Board will review your claim and determine if you are eligible for benefits. Keep in mind that there are time limits for filing a workers’ compensation claim, so it is important to act quickly. Also, make sure to consult with an attorney before filing a claim, as there may be specific rules and procedures that you need to follow.
Consider Filing A Personal Injury Lawsuit
In some cases, like If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, injured workers may also choose to file a personal injury lawsuit. This type of lawsuit is filed against the person or company responsible for the accident that caused the injury. It is important to note that a personal injury lawsuit is separate from a workers’ compensation claim. You can file a personal injury lawsuit even if you have already received workers’ compensation benefits. However, keep in mind that filing a lawsuit can be expensive and time-consuming. You will likely need to hire an attorney, and the case may even take several years to resolve.
If you have been injured at work, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits or filing a personal injury lawsuit.