If you or someone you love is ever injured while at work, you absolutely need to know what steps to take next. Under federal law, you’re entitled to benefits from a program called Worker’s Compensation, but you must follow several guidelines to qualify.
Workplace injuries are no small thing. In 2021, more than 2.5 million illness and injury cases were reported by employers, with more than 5,000 fatal work injuries also reported.
Here at Regenerative Pain & Spine, we specialize in treating worker’s compensation cases. Based on our experience with these cases, here are your next steps if you’ve been injured on the job.
Seek medical attention
If you need emergency care, this should always come first, especially if you think you need emergency care — have someone call 911 or take you to the emergency room if necessary. If the accident doesn’t require immediate emergency care, self-administer whatever first aid is necessary or have someone help you.
While dangerous machinery does cause injuries, many workplace incidents are simply slips, trips, and falls. These may still require a doctor’s care, and it’s always a good idea to get checked even if you think you’re OK.
Report your injury
If an incident occurs, inform your supervisor as soon as possible after the injury. They’ll have paperwork they need to fill out; they should also complete an accident report with the details you provide.
If you need medical attention, check with your supervisor about this as well. In some states, the doctor you receive care from must be approved by your employer for your medical costs to be covered.
Gather info
Make sure you write down details of the incident as soon as you can, and document any physical evidence in case your employer wants to claim you weren’t actually hurt at work. Include the date and time of the accident, the location, details of what happened, and the names of any witnesses.
You’ll need this information for the worker’s comp claim you’ll file with your company. This will ensure your medical bills are paid for. There is a deadline to file this claim, so make sure you file it as soon as you can after the accident.
Follow up
Once you’re settled into the proper medical care, follow the doctor’s instructions carefully so your employer can’t claim you did anything improperly. If your doctor gives you restrictions at work, give a copy to your supervisor as well. Make sure your doctor’s office is sending the bills to your employer, and if you feel the care you’re receiving is not adequate, you have a right to seek the medical attention that will meet your needs.
If you’ve been injured on the job and need medical care, Dr. Shoeb Mohiuddin and our team at Regenerative Pain & Spine will be happy to help. Feel free to call one of our four Chicago-area locations, or use our online scheduler to book a convenient time today!
