What to Do After You've Suffered an Injury on the Job
Suffering an injury on the job can be a stressful time. Most people want to go home and rest if they don't feel they require immediate medical attention. However, that's not a good idea. Instead, follow these guidelines if you suffer an injury at work.
Tell Your Boss
Most employers have paperwork that must be completed when an injury is on the job. They also have specific policies that must be followed. Some companies may call an ambulance to ensure that nothing happens on the way to the hospital. Others will require that you immediately go to the hospital. Drug tests are also standard.
Don't Sign Liability Waivers
Some companies will want you to sign a liability waiver saying the company was not at fault. This is not a good idea. While this is uncommon, it's essential to watch for it. Read the fine print on anything that you sign. If you're unsure whether to sign it, consult a personal injury attorney first.
Head to the Hospital
A hospital will conduct a thorough examination with imaging. This evidence will be necessary if you choose to sue the company. You'll also need a comprehensive exam for workman's compensation claims. All of this needs to be completed immediately after the injury.
Document Everything
It's essential to take the time to write down everything you remember about the incident. Over time, your memory can get fuzzy. That's why you should write down everything you can remember, including who you talked to at your place of employment, doctor's names, etc. Document anything that you think could be potentially relevant, such as pictures of the place you were injured. This can come in handy if you wind up in a courtroom.
Get Copies
At the hospital, get copies of the paperwork for your records. Some hospitals will print copies of everything. Others may tell you where you can find them online. However, some medical facilities require filling out a request for medical records, and knowing this process is essential.
Contact a Lawyer
Contact a personal injury attorney while waiting at the hospital. If the company was at fault, they could help you get a settlement for your injuries, ensuring you can still pay bills while recovering. According to the National Security Council, work-related medically consulted injuries totaled $4 million in 2020, so it may be in your best interest to seek compensation. A lawyer can also help you file a workmen's comp claim and let you know what your rights are.
When you're injured on the job, you need someone that has your best interests in mind. Contact Michael H. Cummings II, LLC Attorney at Law to discuss your injury with an experienced
personal injury attorney today.
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