What to do if you’re hurt at work
Someone who sustains a workplace injury might face a long road to recovery, especially when the injuries are serious. There is a chance that you will have to miss work while you recover. This is where workers’ compensation comes into the picture.
There are several things that you need to do if you are hurt at work. Taking the appropriate steps is imperative if you are planning to file a workers’ compensation claim, which can help to provide you with partial wage replacement and reimbursement for medical bills. Take these steps if you’re hurt at work:
File a report
Filing a work injury report is an important step to take if you are hurt at work. This report needs to be made in writing. It notifies the employer that you sustained a workplace injury. Some employers have accident report forms that you will fill out. Even if your employer only asks for a verbal statement, it’s always better to provide this in writing to ensure there is evidence of the claim – make a copy for yourself. In the State of Illinois, you must notify your employer within 45 days of the injury to be eligible for workers’ comp.
Get medical care
When injured at work, you must see that your injures are treated properly with professional medical care. If the injury is serious enough to warrant emergency care, you can obtain this at the local emergency room. If you don’t need emergency medical care, you should still make an appointment to see your doctor. In fact, the State of Illinois allows you up to two doctors of your choosing.
Workers’ comp claim denials
If accepted, your employer pays for medical care and provides you with partial wage replacement. However, upon denial of your claim, you have two years, in most cases, to bring your case before the Workers’ Compensation Commission. The commission handles disputed claims, and they decide if your claim warrants compensation.
Brunton Law Office provides help with workers’ comp law to those in Granite City, IL and throughout the surrounding Metro-East Area.
