There are certain steps that should be immediately taken after a workplace injury. These injuries can sometimes leave you disoriented. Signing up for a doctor‘s appointment along with consulting a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer are examples of such swift recourse. 

Injured at Work:

If you have been the victim of a workplace injury, then consulting with a lawyer would be a good idea. They will be able to give a detailed overview of the legal framework involved so that you are able to better navigate your workers’ compensation claim. 

As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, fatal work injuries aggregated 189 in North Carolina.  

What Should You Do After A Workplace Injury? Recommendations From A Personal Injury Lawyer in Greenville:

There are a few steps to undertake after undergoing an injury. Adhering to these steps may or may not provide absolute assurance. However, it would certainly provide reasonable assurance for a victorious compensation claim. 

Seek Adequate Medical Attention:

Your health and well-being are a primary priority, therefore, ensure to get adequate medical attention right after your accident. Your company may have an on-site professional who provides first aid. The said person is responsible for providing you with initial medical attention and transporting you to the hospital if required. 

Some companies designate an off-site healthcare facility for employees to go to for work injuries.

An added benefit of consulting with a medical professional is that a proper and complete trail of medical documentation can be created, thereby solidifying the credibility of your work injury claim.

Report the Accident to Management:

You need to report to your manager or supervisor about your injury within 30 days of your accident. The report must be in writing. If you fail to do this, you may not be eligible for a workers’ compensation claim.

You should document details such as:

• The accurate location and timing of the incident 
• The names of any other victims or potential culprits in the accident 
• The nature and circumstances of the incident and how it happened
• The names of any eyewitnesses
• The details of the damages you sustained.

Make Sure The Accident Is Recorded

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has made it compulsory for companies to keep workplace injury reports available for their employees. If you’ve been injured, ask the company to fill out the report, even when your manager says it’s not necessary, and get a copy for your records. This step is essential because some employers are reluctant to record workplace accidents.

Collect Evidence and Take Photos:

On the other hand, your primary focus should be to collect all the evidence, along with your speedy medical recovery.

The most persuasive piece of evidence that will be the absolute base of your claim is CCTV footage. Therefore, not a single minute should be wasted in order to secure such tapes. You can always photograph the entire scene of the incident. 

Be sure to capture photos of any issues that cause your accident, such as uneven floors or impaired machinery.            

The common case observed by lawyers is that the client refuses to go back to the site of the incident as they are not physically well. In such scenarios, our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyers advise you to ask a coworker for help and let them photograph and document the scene of the accident on your behalf.

Gather Witness Details:

As we are discussing colleagues, the thought of eyewitnesses automatically pops up in our minds. Ask anyone who was present that day to volunteer on your behalf and tell everyone their part of the story.

File Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

After suffering a workplace injury, you should submit a workers’ comp claim as soon as possible. You have to file a claim within two years of your injury or illness to be eligible for workers’ comp benefits. Worker’s comp will cover medical care and a percentage of your income while you’re unable to work.

Contact a Reputed Greenville Workers’ Compensation Lawyer:

The lawyers at our firm are qualified and are able to assist you throughout the legal process. Get in touch with our personal injury lawyers in Greenville and set up a free consultation session with us.