Did you know that the ratio of workplace fatalities per 100,000 workers in the United States as of April 2023 is 1.3? This shows an increase compared to previous years. According to BigRentz, nearly one in five deaths among US workers is in the construction industry, and every year, about 1% of construction workers suffer a fatal injury.
Every state has regulations requiring companies of a specific size to offer workers’ compensation benefits to their employees. These benefits shield employees from lost wages and medical expenses brought on by accidents at work. In most cases, workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory for enterprises operating in the state.
If you suffered an injury at a construction site, you can reach out to a construction accident attorney near you who can help you file a worker’s compensation claim.
Let’s look at the steps you can take after a workplace injury.
Reporting the injury
Reporting an injury at work should be done as soon as possible to allow proper follow-up. Reporting the injury to your supervisor right away can help prevent the same incidents from happening to other workers. Document what you felt after the accident and provide details about the events before, during and after the accident.
Seeking medical treatment
Attorneys from Canlas Law Group say that if you have been injured at work, you have to seek immediate medical treatment to ensure your health and well-being are properly addressed. Go to the nearest hospital so a doctor can treat any wound or detect any hidden injury that doesn’t show any symptoms yet.
When you see a doctor, be sure to describe your symptoms and the manner in which the accident happened. Observe the instructions given by the doctor, show up for all follow-up visits, and carry out the recommended course of treatment.
Maintain a file of all medical records, including diagnoses, prescribed treatments, and any limitations on work-related tasks. Your health should come first, so do not put off getting medical attention because you are worried about the consequences of the accident.
Documenting the incident
As soon as possible, document the scene of the accident, the equipment involved and the injuries you sustained. Make a note of any potential safety risks that led to the mishap.
Using all the details you have gathered, provide a detailed account of the accident and a report to your employer. Make sure that you have a copy of this report for your files.
Communicating with employers
Don’t forget to notify HR too, once you’re able. To help in the investigation, be truthful in your account. Your company can better understand your needs and offer you recovery assistance if you communicate openly.
Ask for the forms and procedure for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Keep in touch with your employer regarding the claim.
Following Up on the Claim
After submitting your workers’ compensation claim, you must follow up regularly with your employer to track the progress and guarantee timely processing. By staying informed about your claim’s status, you can address any issues that may arise.
Contact your employer within a week of filing the claim to confirm they’ve received it. Inquire about the expected processing timeline and ask if they require any further documentation from you. Keeping this line of communication open can help prevent delays.
If there are any delays or uncertainties, follow up with your employer for updates. Being proactive shows your commitment to the claim and can speed up its resolution. Maintain a record of all communications regarding your claim. Note down the dates of follow-ups, any information provided by your employer, and any actions required from your end.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can guarantee you receive the necessary support and compensation to recover and get back on your feet. Your well-being is important, so don’t hesitate to take the required actions to protect yourself after a workplace injury.
By Chris Bates
