Getting the proper legal help is important when you have been injured in the workplace. This is especially true when you are dealing with treatment disputes. A lawyer can assist you with these issues so that you can focus on healing.
File a workers’ compensation claim
Getting a workers’ compensation claim started after a serious workplace injury can be a long process. This can include months of waiting for a resolution. The process can also be a financial hardship for the worker and family. Fortunately, there are several things that can be done to help ease the process.
The first step is to notify your employer of the injury. This is typically done in written form. Your human resources department should have experience with this type of case and can advise you on how to notify your employer.
Next, get medical treatment. This is important because it ensures that you receive the proper care and treatment for your injuries. If you have severe injuries, you may need to be transported to an emergency room. In some cases, you may need to seek medical attention from your family doctor.
Depending on the nature of the work you do, you may be able to receive some benefits from workers’ compensation. These can range from temporary lost wages to paid time off. These benefits can also help you with job changes and training to perform a new role.
Immediately seek medical attention
Immediately seeking medical attention after a serious workplace injury is a good idea. Not only can a visit to the ER improve your recovery, but the proper treatment can also help your employer make the case that your injury is not work related. A doctor’s assessment of your condition is the first step in a ten step process that will hopefully get you back to work faster and safer than you were before.
If you have to miss work, you are entitled to some compensation. For example, you are entitled to a reimbursement for travel expenses. Depending on your state’s workers’ compensation laws, your employer may need a written description of your injuries before it will pay you. You may also need to undergo an evaluation by an insurance agent to make sure you are receiving the benefits you deserve.
A trip to the emergency room is not always required, but it’s a good idea to have a plan for your post-injury medical care. You should also be mindful of your medical records, including any medical bills you may incur, to ensure you don’t end up paying them out of pocket.
File a third-party claim
Depending on the circumstances of your workplace injury, you may be able to file a third-party claim for compensation. These claims can provide you with more money than you would be able to receive with workers’ compensation. If you have suffered a serious injury, you should speak with a lawyer to find out if you have a valid claim.
Third-party claims can be filed against other parties that contributed to your workplace accident. These include individuals who entered the workplace and caused an accident. For example, a drunk driver or a disgruntled former employee who caused an accident while driving a truck.
In addition, you may be able to sue the manufacturer of a toxic substance that caused your injury. These substances can lead to serious illnesses, such as asbestos, poisonous fumes, and lead-based paint. If you are exposed to these substances, you can seek damages to cover your medical costs, as well as pain and suffering.
These claims can be more complex than a workers’ compensation claim. You should work with an experienced attorney to determine whether you have a viable claim.
Get a new job
Getting a new job after a serious workplace injury can be a good idea. But, it’s important to think about how the new position will affect your health. It can be tempting to start working again too early, and that could lead to reinjury. Having a doctor’s clearance is necessary to safely return to work, so talk to your doctor before making a decision.
The length of your typical workday will also affect your lifestyle, so keep this in mind when considering a new position. If you want to stay at home, you may be interested in a second part-time job, which can reduce the number of hours you are paid for. Alternatively, you may decide to pursue another career or hobby.
If you are injured on the job, it can be a challenge to find a new job. There are many questions to consider, and you will have to create a plan of action to make it happen.