Like any person who gets injured at work, you never expected it to happen to you, no matter your type of job. Yet now that it has, your mind is likely filled with many questions as to how things will proceed in the coming weeks and months. If you don’t know what to expect, you could be facing many unpleasant surprises along the way. Now that your accident has occurred, here are some things to keep in mind.
File Your Accident Report Immediately
When you are hurt on the job, never hesitate to file an accident report as quickly as possible. While the law may allow you several days or more to do so, don’t delay unnecessarily. The longer you wait, the more likelihood your employer or their insurance company will claim your injuries did not occur at work, which could set the stage for prolonged litigation.
Talk to An Attorney
Even if you believe your employer will be helpful following your accident, don’t try to go it alone after a workplace injury. Instead, always schedule a consultation with a firm like Jeeves Law Group, P.A. personal injury attorney. By doing so, you can talk over your case in great detail, learn about your rights as an employee, find out if your attorney thinks you have a viable case and learn about possible outcomes for your case.
Reaching a Settlement
In many cases where there is little doubt your injuries did take place on the job, your employer’s insurance company may be willing to reach a financial settlement. However, this does not mean you should take the first offer that is made by your employer’s insurer. In many situations, the insurance company may try to coerce you into accepting a very minimal amount of money as a settlement, which often will not cover your medical expenses and lost wages. Instead, have your attorney handle these negotiations.
Get Medical Treatment
Along with filing your accident report immediately following your injury, also remember to get medical treatment both at the scene and at a hospital. Even if you are not sure you are seriously injured, failing to get prompt medical treatment can put your health as well as potential legal action in jeopardy. Having your injuries documented in your medical records as soon as possible, increases the likelihood you will receive adequate compensation.
Conclusion
By educating yourself about what happens following a workplace accident, you can set the stage to have your legal rights protected and receive maximum compensation for your injuries.
You must be logged in to post a comment.