Many have experienced it; it’s the moment you realize you’re injured. It’s a moment filled with panic, dread and confusion, especially if it happens on the job. It’s also a moment of vital importance to your Worker’s Compensation claim. The time immediately following your injury can help determine the next weeks, months or even years of your life. In order to handle it correctly, you must be prepared. Here are a few initial considerations to keep in mind when dealing with an injury on the job.
Report It
When a case goes to court, inconsistencies can mean the difference between winning and losing. Scenario: You’re working on a Friday and suddenly feel a shooting sensation in your back. Thinking it might be nothing, you go home for the weekend and resolve to reassess the situation on Monday. Fast forward a few weeks. If your case goes to court, you’ll inevitably be asked why you didn’t immediately report the incident. That (seemingly harmless) inconsistency could potentially decide the outcome of your case. Although it does not have to be in writing, that can helpful evidence later on if the employer claims you did not report an injury. A short email or text to a boss or supervisor is sufficient to establish the timeline for your injury. Just mention that the pain was caused by your work and that you’ll revisit the situation on Monday. That’s more than enough information.
Talk to a Doctor
When it comes to work-related injuries, many people are hesitant to visit a doctor right away. Don’t be. A doctor’s visit will help to maintain the consistency that’s so important to your claim. While at the doctor, it’s also important to explicitly mention that the accident happened at work. When it comes to your claim, too much information isn’t nearly as risky as too little. When dealing with an injury, one must always be thinking ahead. If the case goes to court, every detail will be examined and every communication reviewed. Don’t wait until it is too late; early documentation and communication can help to ensure that a claim goes as smoothly as possible. If you have any questions, please remember that Perkins Studdard offers free phone consultations at any stage of the process. We’re here to help.
