10 common mistakes to avoid after a workplace injury
Work injuries can happen anywhere at any time. These can be extremely painful and lead to extra expenditures for treatment. Therefore, it is important to do things right after the accident. However, it is equally, if not more, crucial to avoid making mistakes. Below are the 10 things that can help you learn more about people often do wrong after being injured at work. Staying away from these can assist you in obtaining the complete restitution you are worthy of.
- Don’t Downplay Your Injuries
Occasionally, individuals do not want to overemphasize things in an attempt to appear as if the issue is of little concern. However, if you fail to inform your employer or other people around you that you are injured, then they may consider it to be a minor issue. They must understand that you are in pain. This will ensure that those in need of help will get it.
- Don’t Forget to Report Your Injury
Of course, after getting hurt, don’t ignore it. You need to report it to your employer immediately. You should report your injury within 90 days. Otherwise, it may be too late to ever file for workers’ compensation. Remember to complete all the necessary papers. This will assist you in providing evidence that you sustained the injury at the workplace.
- Don’t Delay Treatment At All
It is recommended that you must consult a doctor as soon as possible. Otherwise, the insurance company will end up thinking it does not need to worry about your injury. They will assume that it is not that severe. They might even tell you that you were injured somewhere else. Seeking treatment early demonstrates the genuineness of the injury and the fact that it occurred while the worker was on the job.
- Don’t Lose Track of Medical Records
Police reports, medical reports, bills, receipts, etc must be kept properly. This includes doctors’ visits, medical bills, and treatment options. These papers provide evidence that your injury is real. Your lawyer can use them to demonstrate that you are incapacitated from performing your usual work duties due to the injury.
- Don’t Hide Past Injuries or Conditions
Sometimes, you might have had some previous injury that was aggravated by your work. But you can still claim workers’ compensation. However, if you decide to leave this information undisclosed, it may harm your case in one way or the other. So, speak up the truth always. The responsibility to tell the truth lies in the client’s discretion because the lawyer represents them in court. It will help you obtain the money you need, regardless of whether you had an injury before.
- Stay Off Social Media
Posting online can hurt your case. If you say you feel fine, your words can be misused. The insurance company might use it against you. Stay off social media until your case is done.
- Strictly Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
If your doctor says to only do light work, listen to them. Don’t do tasks that are too hard. It could make your injury worse. If your boss asks you to do more, talk to a lawyer.
- Don’t Start a New Job
Starting a new job or business while healing can be bad for your case. It might make it look like you aren’t really hurt. Wait until your case is finished before starting anything new.
- Don’t Sign Anything Without Help
The insurance company sometimes gives you papers to sign. Don’t sign them without a lawyer. They might be trying to trick you. A lawyer can help you understand what you’re signing.
- Don’t Accept Money Without a Lawyer
If you take money now, you can’t ask for more later. This could be a problem if you need more treatment. A lawyer can help you get the right amount of money.
Conclusion
After a work injury, avoid these mistakes. Be careful and talk to a lawyer. This will help you get the money you need.