Understanding On-The-Job Injuries
On-the-job injuries can range from a mild nuisance to a life-changing event. No one intends to suffer an injury while working, although the incidence of workplace injuries is startling.
While many companies take extensive precautions to prevent such injuries, accidents still happen. If you are injured on the job, it is important to know what steps to take. This protects you physically from further harm and financially from potential repercussions.
Review Employer Safety Regulations
It is important to follow your company’s procedures both before and after a workplace injury. Familiarize yourself with their guidelines.
Safety procedures are often covered in detail during new hire orientation and are typically provided in an employee handbook. Just as it is important to know traffic laws to avoid accidents while driving, educate yourself on your employer’s safety rules and regulations. By following these rules, you eliminate a great deal of risk for personal injury on the job.
Report Incidents Immediately
Perhaps the most important and often overlooked step to ensuring you receive the workers’ compensation you may be entitled to is to report the incident immediately to your employer. Many employees do not initially see an injury as worth reporting.
For example, imagine you are lifting a heavy box at work and feel as if you may have strained your back. Rather than immediately reporting that to your supervisor, you decide to wait until severe back pain develops. At that point, it may be too late to seek workers’ compensation benefits from your employer, as the incident was not reported when it first happened.
Steps for Reporting an Injury
Many companies (particularly larger ones) have designated safety officers in place that handle all injury/accident reports on site. Utilize those individuals or any other supervisors responsible for injury reporting.
Do not just assume that your injury is too minimal to report. Report it anyway.
Even if you do not end up requiring any medical treatment for it, at least you have protected yourself on the front end by reporting it immediately.
Seeking Fair Compensation
If you have been injured on the job, report it immediately. That is the first step to a successful workers’ compensation claim.
After that, the process can become quite complex. It is important to have trained professionals on your side who understand the system and can fight on your behalf. The attorneys at Mckenzie & Snyder LLP can help you navigate the process and get you the compensation and treatment you have earned.
