Accidents happen. And when you’re injured on the job, your whole world turns upside down.
One minute you’re working. The next you’re in pain, facing mountains of bills and bureaucracy.
Employers reported 1.3 million work injuries in 2023.
That’s 1.3 MILLION people who found themselves in a bad situation.
If you know what to do, though, it doesn’t have to be so bad.
The problem is most workers don’t know how to handle a workplace injury the smart way.
They end up making careless mistakes that could cost them thousands in lost benefits.
Insurance companies COUNT ON it.
The good news is, if you play your cards right you can protect yourself and your recovery.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Why workplace injuries require immediate attention
- Exactly what to do right after getting hurt
- Your rights regarding workers’ compensation
- When to hire a professional for help
- 5 mistakes that kill your claim
Read on to learn how to handle a workplace injury the smart way…
Why Workplace Injuries Require Immediate Attention
Your first hour after getting hurt at work will determine your future.
Why?
Insurance companies DEPEND on injured workers NOT acting quickly.
They look for any excuse to deny a claim. If you wait too long to file, that’s their out.
It’s really that simple.
Here’s the hard truth.
Personal injury law services exist because the system is screwed up.
Without an attorney representing them, injured workers get steamrolled by bureaucratic red tape and insurance company lawyers.
When you need workers comp legal assistance, acting quickly can help you secure that representation.
Why does quick action matter?
Evidence gets lost. Witnesses become harder to track down. Medical records become less relevant…
You get the idea.
By taking quick action, you lock in the evidence while it’s fresh.
Exactly What to Do After Being Hurt at Work
Say you got injured at work. Here’s what you need to do…
Report your injury to your supervisor ASAP.
Don’t put it off until tomorrow. And definitely don’t hope it heals on its own.
States take workplace injury reporting VERY seriously. Some only give you a week to report an injury!
Make sure you:
- Report the injury in writing.
- Retain a copy of your written accident report.
- Write down the time, date, and person you told.
- Get names and contact info for witnesses.
Seek Medical Attention
This should go without saying, but see a doctor ASAP.
A dual purpose. 1) You receive proper medical care. 2) It creates a record linking your injury to the work accident.
If you let days or weeks go by without seeing a doctor, the insurance company will argue you weren’t hurt at work.
Don’t make their job easier. Get checked out immediately.
Document Everything
This cannot be stressed enough.
Use your phone to take photos of the accident site.
Take pictures of your injuries.
Print screenshots of important conversations.
Keep a daily journal tracking your injuries and how they impact you.
Anything that can support your claim, DOCUMENT IT.
Your Rights After a Workers’ Comp Injury
If you got hurt on the job, workers comp is there to protect you.
Cover things like:
- Medical bills
- A percentage of lost wages
- Rehabilitation costs and physical therapy
- Disability benefits
Pretty simple stuff. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.
Insurance companies employ large teams of lawyers and investigators who specialize in DENYING claims.
They will poke holes in your story looking for reasons to deny your case. We live in a society that pays out millions of dollars on litigated workers’ comp cases every year.
That’s why understanding your rights is so crucial. When you know what you’re entitled to, insurance companies have a harder time taking advantage of you.
When to Hire Someone for Help
You don’t need to hire a lawyer for every workplace injury.
Many minor injuries can be handled without any professional help.
However, many also shouldn’t be DIY’ed either.
67% of denied workers compensation claims are eventually paid claims. Furthermore, claim awards for converted claims average 55% higher than original offers.
If you find yourself in a situation where:
- Your claim was denied/disputed
- Injuries are severe/permanent
- You’re feeling pressured to return to work
- Insurance company is giving you the runaround
- You have a pre-existing condition they’re blaming the injury on
It’s time to bring in professional help.
5 Mistakes That Kill Your Injury Claim
So why do so many injury claims get denied?
Because workers innocently shoot themselves in the foot.
Here are the most common:
Waiting Too Long to Report Your Injury
Deadlines are EVERYWHERE when it comes to workers comp.
Some states allow you 30 days to report an injury. Some give you LESS than that.
If you wait a day or two to report, insurance adjusters see red flags.
Report your injury the SAME day it happens. Simple as that.
Not Following Doctor’s Orders
Skip your doctor’s appointments.
Don’t follow prescribed treatment plans.
Refuse physical therapy.
Eventually, the insurance company will use these offenses as ways to question the legitimacy of your injury.
You’re injured, you should FOLLOW DOCTOR’S ORDERS.
Posting Your Injury on Social Media
Got twitters?
Who isn’t?
But when you’ve injured yourself on the job, it’s best to lay low on social media.
That doesn’t mean you have to go completely silent. But obviously refrain from posting pictures of yourself rocking that metal rod through your skull at your nieces wedding.
Insurance companies investigate every angle they can. And if they see you out dancing on social media, they’ll assume you’re not hurt.
Giving a Recorded Statement
These guys are NOT on your side.
You’d think they would be since they work for the insurance company, but they’re not.
When insurance adjusters request a recorded statement, they’re looking to use YOUR words to decrease your settlement.
Cooperate with them, but never give a recorded statement without knowing the consequences.
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Insurance adjusters lowball injured workers. It’s what they do.
You can bet the first offer they give you will always be LOWER than what they’re actually willing to pay.
Don’t settle until YOU know what you want.
Wrap-Up: How to Handle a Workplace Injury
There you have it! Now you know how to handle a workplace injury the smart way:
- Act quickly
- Document everything
- Know your rights
- Get help when you need it
With over 1 MILLION workplace injuries each year, chances are you know someone who’s gone through it.
Pay close attention to this guide if they do get hurt. And more importantly, SHARE IT with them if they have.
Nobody wants a workplace injury to derail their life.
Take action now and ensure yourself the best possible outcome.
