Workplace accidents can change your life, not only your health, but also your capacity for work and earning a living. Some employees unintentionally make errors following an injury that devastates their cases and deprives them of compensation. No matter where you were hurt, in an office, on a construction site, or in a warehouse, being aware of these blunders can impact your case. Here are five avoidable mistakes you must never make when you're injured at work.
Failure to Report the Injury Immediately
Certain employees believe that the injury is minor or will fade away by itself and therefore carry on working. Delay thereafter would make employers and insurers question the validity of the injury, which becomes more difficult to claim benefits subsequently.
Reporting it immediately is not only wise but frequently mandated by company or legal policy. This action also leaves you with an unblemished paper trail that links your injury to the job accident. The record becomes valuable should your company or the insurance company dispute your claims.
Failure to Seek Immediate Attention
Most employees do not seek medical attention, believing it will save time or money. Unfortunately, this makes the injury worse and causes holes in your medical history that damage your case. Delaying can cause it to be claimed that your injury was not bad or was not work-related.
Having the doctor see you immediately guarantees that your injuries are scanned, treated, and recorded. Even though you may feel perfectly alright, some injuries, such as concussions or strains, internal injuries won't show until later, and an initial diagnosis will safeguard your health and your case.
Not Understanding Your Legal Rights and Benefits
Few employees know their rights under workers' compensation laws. A lack of information can lead to denied benefits, insufficient medical care, or an unconscionable settlement.
For instance, if you slipped and fell in New Jersey, talking to a qualified slip and fall attorney in New Jersey can inform you about your rights, bargain for you with your insurers, and get you a good deal. It's wise to have someone advocating on your behalf who is well-versed in the law and can protect your rights.
Coming Back to Work Too Quickly
Most injured workers are intimidated by themselves or their employer to get back to work before they can recover. This might result in re-injury, longer recovery, or permanent damage. Insurances and employers may also use your early return to prove that your injury was not severe.
Comply with your physician's orders about work modifications and schedules. When light-duty work is provided, ensure that it is within your ability and that written documentation of any adjustments is available. Your health must always be the matter above all else.
Overlooking the Value of Documentation
Inadequate documentation can jeopardize your case. These are detailed medical reports, incident reports, witness statements, and even accident photos. Without solid records, it is much more challenging to prove your injury and its link to work.
Keep a specific document for all of your work accident documents, from proof of medication receipts to written communication with your employer. Your lawyer will also assist in collecting the right documents to support your claim.
Endnote
Workplace accidents are not only physically and emotionally demanding but financially expensive as well. Avoid mistakes such as being late to report, not going to see a doctor, and not reporting what happened. These are all essential to the success of your case. Being well-versed in your rights and proper procedure for doing so ensures that you are provided the compensation and assistance that you are entitled to.
