In the aftermath of a workplace accident, you may feel confused about what you should do next. However, acting quickly can help you protect your claim and access compensation promptly.
Creating a timeline to eliminate doubt
Reporting an injury as soon as it happens starts the timeline that connects your injury to the accident. It demonstrates that you were at work when the accident occurred. If you wait too long to report an accident, the insurance company may use the gap in time to claim your injuries were the result of another incident. Even waiting a few days weakens your claim.
Getting your facts straight
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, your memory is clearest. You can forget details even within a matter of hours after the accident occurs. The sooner you report your injuries, the more likely you are to provide an accurate narrative of the incident. When you tell your employer about an accident, they should follow the company policy for filing a report, providing the details you present and interviewing witnesses. With immediate action, your witnesses have the opportunity to provide statements when their memories are freshest as well.
Avoiding missed deadlines
You only have a certain amount of time from the date you sustained an injury to make a workers’ compensation claim. If you wait to report, you risk damaging your claim and missing out on the compensation you deserve.
Once you report a workplace injury, your employer is responsible for promptly filing a workers’ compensation claim so you can access coverage for medical expenses and lost income.