What Do I Do If I Have Been Injured at Work?
Law Offices Of Kevin Cortright | Desert Living Show from Desert Living Show on Vimeo.
A lot of people get injured at work and don’t know what to do. There are a few steps that should be followed to ensure that the process of recovery goes as well as possible and the communication lines are open between you and your employer.
The first thing that you should do when you are injured on the job is to let your employer know so that you can get some immediate medical care. Do not miss this step! While it is possible to figure out a Workers’ Compensation case later down the line, it is always in your best interest to immediately communicate to your manager or employer what has happened. They will ask you to fill out an initial report to document the incident and will then send you to the doctors that they have set up.
This step of communicating with your employer is extremely important. A lot of people get hurt on the job. They don’t know what to do, they don’t want to speak up, or they feel bad about it and suffer through the day hoping that they can return home to heal before the next day of work. Following this initial step makes sure that you receive immediate care, getting both the doctors and insurance involved. Giving everybody notice will help you months down the road.
Am I able to go to my own doctor when I am injured at work?
In reality, you won’t be able to go to your own doctor if you have been injured on the job. Regular doctors don’t want to and don’t know how to deal with the Workers’ Compensation system. Employers have special doctors set up, or what is known as a medical provider network. You will receive treatment within this network, because these doctors know the system, understand the forms, and are used to the reporting and what is required of them.
However, do not let this scare you. The first thing that Kevin Cortright does when working with you on your Workers’ Compensation case is to see who you are treating with, who else is available, and which doctor would be the most appropriate for you and your injuries and moves you to their treatment. This keeps the system in check, and makes sure that your best interest is in mind – instead of your employer or insurance company.
How soon should I contact a lawyer when I am injured at work?
When it comes to being injured at work, the sooner the better. After you have visited the doctor for the first time, and have a better understanding of the situation is when you should contact an attorney. If you wait to long, the situation can become confusing and you may not be treated fairly. The employer has their lawyer, and so does the insurance company, so it is ideal for you to protect your own interest as well.
If you have been injured at work, or have questions about Workers’ Compensation contact Kevin Cortright today for a free consultation.