Workplace injuries can happen to anyone, at any time. Whether you work in construction, retail, or an office, you are at risk of getting hurt at work. And when that happens, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps you should take if you’ve been hurt at work, from reporting the injury to your employer to filing a workers’ compensation claim. By following these steps, you can protect your rights and ensure that you receive the care and support you need to heal.
What Should You Do Immediately After a Work Injury?
If you work in South Carolina and have suffered a work injury, you might be concerned about what you need to do to ensure that you’re being taken care of and that you’re receiving the benefits you need for a safe and speedy recovery. Don’t panic! There are two important steps that you must follow:
- Report Your Injury to Your Employer.
The absolute first thing you need to do when hurt on the job is to inform your employer of the injury. The best policy is to make sure that there is physical documentation of your injury. File an accident report if you can. If your claim is related to an occupational disease be sure to keep evidence of doctors notes. You have 90 days from your accident or diagnosis to report your injury to your employer.
- File a Claim.
The next step is to file a claim. You have two years to file a claim for workers’ compensation; however, we generally recommend filing sooner rather than later. You don’t want to find yourself coming up against deadlines. In the event of the death of the injured employee their dependents (or parents if there are no dependents) are responsible for filing the claim.
Why Is It Important to Follow These Steps?
Following the proper steps after being hurt at work is crucial for a number of reasons. Firstly, it ensures that you receive the medical attention you need as soon as possible. Delaying medical treatment can worsen your injuries and lead to long-term health problems. By following the steps, you can also ensure that you receive proper compensation for any medical bills, lost wages, or other damages resulting from the accident.
Secondly, following the steps is important for legal reasons. If you plan on filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing legal action against your employer, you will need to have documentation of the incident and the steps you took afterwards. This will help to establish a clear timeline of events and provide evidence to support your case.
Finally, following the steps can also help to prevent future accidents and injuries in the workplace. By reporting the incident and working with your employer to address the root cause of the accident, you can help to create a safer work environment for yourself and your colleagues.
Overall, following the proper steps after being hurt at work is essential for your health, your legal rights, and the safety of everyone in the workplace.
What If You Are Not Able to Follow Through These Steps?
If you are unable to follow through the steps of reporting your injury and filing a claim, you may need to seek assistance. This could include reaching out to a workers’ compensation attorney or a union representative if you are a member of a union.
It’s important to remember that you have rights as an injured worker and there are resources available to help you navigate the process. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advocate for yourself to ensure you receive the compensation and medical care you deserve.
Should You Really Get the Help of an Attorney?
If you’ve been hurt at work, you may be wondering if you should get the help of an attorney. The short answer is yes, you should. Here’s why:
First, an attorney can help you navigate the complicated legal process of filing a workers’ compensation claim. They can help you fill out the necessary paperwork, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Second, an attorney can help you understand your rights as an employee. They can explain the laws and regulations that protect you from retaliation or discrimination for filing a workers’ compensation claim. They can also help you understand the potential consequences of not filing a claim, such as losing your job or being denied medical treatment.
Third, an attorney can represent you in court if your claim is denied or disputed. They can argue your case in front of a judge and help you appeal any unfavorable decisions.
Overall, getting the help of an attorney is a smart decision if you’ve been hurt at work. They can provide you with the legal expertise and support you need to get the compensation and justice you deserve.
If you have any questions about filing a claim or reporting your injury, don’t hesitate to contact an attorney. Oxner + Permar has the experience to guide you and make sure that you are taking the right steps to receive your workers’ comp benefits.
