A workplace injury can happen in an instant and may leave you unsure about what to do next. Whether you were injured in a construction accident, hurt while lifting or moving equipment, or developed an injury over time, taking the right steps can help protect your health and your workers’ compensation rights.
If you have been injured at work in New York, here are some important things to consider.
1. Report the Injury to Your Employer
One of the first things you should do after a workplace injury is notify your employer. Explain when, where, and how the injury happened.
Even if an injury initially seems minor, reporting it promptly creates a record of the incident. Keep a copy of any written report or documentation you provide to your employer.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Your health should always be your first priority. Seek appropriate medical treatment after a workplace injury, even if you believe the injury will improve on its own.
Tell your medical provider that the injury occurred at work and explain exactly what happened. Make sure your symptoms and limitations are properly documented.
3. Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations
Follow your treatment plan and attend scheduled appointments. If your doctor places restrictions on your work activities, make sure your employer is aware of those restrictions.
Your medical records can be important in documenting the nature and severity of your workplace injury.
4. Keep Detailed Records
Keep copies of documents related to your injury, including:
- Medical records and bills
- Accident or incident reports
- Work restrictions
- Correspondence from your employer
- Insurance company correspondence
- Wage information
- Notes about conversations related to your claim
Keeping organized records can make it easier to understand the status of your claim and respond to requests for information.
5. Understand Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Depending on the circumstances of your injury, workers’ compensation may provide benefits for medical treatment and lost wages. Some injured workers may also qualify for benefits related to a permanent injury.
Every case is different, and the benefits available to you may depend on the nature and extent of your injury.
6. Be Careful With Insurance Company Communications
You may receive calls or correspondence from an insurance company after reporting your injury. Carefully review anything you are asked to sign or provide.
If you are uncertain about your rights or the effect a particular document may have on your claim, consider speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney before proceeding.
When Should You Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
You may want to speak with an attorney if your claim has been denied, your benefits have been delayed, your employer disputes that your injury is work-related, or you have questions about a permanent injury or settlement.
