Workplace injuries or accidents are quite common. They can happen to anyone, in any industry, at any time. One of the most common types of workplace incidents is overexertion. This happens when employees push themselves beyond their physical limits, leading to injuries such as fractures, muscle strains, and sprains. When this happens, workers are often left with mounting medical bills and lost wages due to time off work. If you’ve suffered from overexertion at your workplace, this blog will walk you through the steps you need to take to be compensated.
Report the Incident to Your Employer
If you want to be compensated for overexertion at your workplace, the first step is to report the incident to your employer. This is important because it creates a trail of evidence that can be referred to during the compensation claim. The report should detail the time, date, and location of the incident, as well as any witnesses. Your employer should then create an incident report that outlines the incident in detail.
Seek Professional Medical Attention
After reporting the incident, the next step is to seek professional medical attention. This is crucial because the medical report provides evidence of your injury and helps determine the extent of your injury. It’s important to follow the medical professional’s advice, which may entail taking time off work to fully recover.
File a Claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board
The next step is to file a claim with your state’s Workers’ Compensation Board. This board oversees work-related injury claims and is responsible for providing compensation to injured workers. Filing a claim requires completing paperwork that outlines the nature of the injury and the circumstances leading up to the incident. The application must be submitted within a specified timeframe, so it’s essential that you act as quickly as possible.
Consult with a Work Accident Lawyer
If you’re struggling to navigate the workers’ compensation claims process or feel frustrated by the outcome of your case, it’s essential you consult with a work accident lawyer. These lawyers specialize in workplace injury claims and can help you assess the strength of your claim and represent you as your claim progresses. They can also help maximize your settlement and ensure you receive the compensation you’re owed.
Negotiate Your Settlement
Once your work accident lawyer has evaluated your claim, they can help you negotiate your settlement. The employer’s insurance company may suggest a settlement offer that may not cover the full extent of your injuries, lost wages, and other damages. Your lawyer can help you counteroffer and negotiate a fair compensation package.
Overexertion is an avoidable workplace accident, but if you do find yourself injured at work, seeking compensation is essential for your financial and physical well-being. Begin by reporting the accident to your employer, seeking medical attention, filing a claim, and consulting with a work accident lawyer. With legal representation, you can navigate the claims process with confidence and ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers your losses and damages.
Author information: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.
