Whether you work in an office, warehouse, or retail store, there is always the chance you may be injured while on the job. Should this happen, it is vital you take certain steps to ensure you get the financial compensation you will need to replace lost wages, pay your medical bills, and compensate you for your pain and suffering. Unfortunately, many people fail to take the proper steps in these situations, resulting in them getting little if any compensation following their accident. Instead of letting this happen to you, here are three tips to get the help you need.
Don’t Delay Seeking Medical Treatment
To begin with, never delay in getting medical treatment for any injuries you suffered while at work. Even if you think your injuries are not serious, always let yourself be examined by an ER doctor or your family doctor as soon as possible. Since injuries to your back, neck, and head can sometimes take hours or days to show symptoms, getting examined immediately will ensure you get the necessary treatment. Should you delay treatment, your employer and their insurance company may be able to say you were not injured on the job, thereby denying you compensation.
Hire a Workers’ Comp Attorney
While you may assume your employer will be eager to help you when you are injured at work, this doesn’t always occur. In fact, many employers will make it difficult for their injured employees by accusing them of lying, threatening to fire them if they don’t return to work, and other actions that are often illegal. To make sure your rights are protected, hire a workers’ comp attorney to handle your case. By doing so, you can learn how to get a free disability benefits case evaluation and ensure your rights are protected.
Be Willing to Appeal
Unfortunately, many disability claims and workers’ comp claims are initially denied. Should this happen to you, be willing to appeal the decision. To do so, you should always rely on experienced workers’ comp attorneys and others to advise you each step of the way. Along with representing you at any hearings, they can also help you gather additional evidence to support your case, such as testimony from your doctors, those who witnessed your accident, and even expert witnesses should the need arise.
Even if your employer is playing hardball and the road ahead is tough, never give up on seeking compensation. By following these tips, you can emerge with the disability benefits you need and deserve.
Author information: Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty.
