When you are involved in an accident, you have to file a claim. You need to understand the process for filing a claim and what is expected of you, and you need to file your claim as soon as possible. This article will help you understand what needs to be done in order to file a successful claim for workplace accidents and what to do if your employer appears reluctant to accept any responsibility for your injury.
You Won’t Lose Your Job By Reporting Your Accident
Many employees, unaware of the law, fear that they will lose their job if they report an accident, often minimizing the extent of a cut, fall, or other injuries that occurred when they were at work. You need to notify your employer and provide relevant medical information if you have a workplace accident. You don’t need to be afraid of losing your job because companies don’t have any legal basis to terminate an employee for an accident at work.
How to Report an Accident at Work
Accidents are a common problem in the workplace. Sometimes they can cause injury and even death. It is important to know how to deal with an accident at work. There are many accidents that occur in the workplace. For example, a slip and fall accident can be very costly for your company. Accidents happen at all levels: high, medium, and low. Find out the reporting process at your job as soon as you incur an injury. You must learn who you need to speak to, what forms you need to fill out, and what you can expect after you have made your report.
However, the most important thing about a workplace accident is not how you report it—how well you followed the company’s reporting procedure–but when you report it. The sooner the better. Different jobs or states have different reporting deadlines, however, they are usually a matter of days rather than hours. If, for example, you were a federal employee, then you must file your claim within three days of the date of injury. If you have reported the accident as soon as it occurred, you will be protected from the employer who might claim that you were not on the clock at the time.
When You Need a Job Accident Attorney
When you find yourself in a situation where you have suffered an extensive injury and your employer is either downplaying the extent of your injury or procrastinates on taking any action, then you may need to hire a job site accident attorney who will take the case on your behalf.
Experiencing a workplace injury can be a stressful occurrence. However, you can receive the compensation you need by filing a claim in a timely manner. Remember the above tips and reasons to make sure you always file a workplace accident claim.
Author information: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2.
