Your Health Matters: What to Do If You’re Hurt at Work

No one expects to get hurt on the job, but accidents do occur. Whether you slip and fall on a wet floor or are injured lifting something heavy or using equipment, you have a right to file a claim for workers’ compensation.

When you’re injured on the job in Connecticut, you may not know how you’ll manage the pain, how you’ll work, or how you’ll pay for expensive medical bills. But don’t panic. Amidst all of that panic, there’s also the not-so-small matter of knowing what to do if you’re injured while working.

In this article, we are going to share with you what steps you should take when you’re being hurt at work. So, let’s begin:

1.     Inform Your Supervisor Right Away

When you are injured on the job, the first thing you need to do is let your supervisor or manager know as soon as possible. Even a small cut needs to be reported.” For instance, let them know right away if you slip or hurt yourself while lifting a heavy object.

This will make it easier for your workplace to document the accident and provide the necessary medical assistance as quickly as possible. It also preserves your rights if your injury worsens later. And never believe that you are creating a headache by reporting it.

Your safety and health are more important than anything at work.

2.     Get Medical Help

The next thing to do is to ask for medical advice. Call 911 or head to the nearest hospital immediately.

For injuries that are less serious, your workplace might have a first-aid officer or nurse who can examine you. You may also have to go to a doctor appointed by your employer.

Adhere closely to medical advice and maintain all medical records.

3.     Record Everything

When you are injured on the job, you need to write down everything about the injury. Record what happened, when it happened, and where.

For instance, write down the date and time, and what you were doing when the injury occurred. If someone else witnessed it, note down their names as well. And also take photos of the spot where you were injured.

These documents will be useful should anyone ask about your injury later on. You can use the same worksheets to file a claim.

4.     File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Once you have documented everything, it is time to file the workers’ compensation claim. This is a formal request for the aid of your medical bills and lost wages. Your employer will provide you with a form to fill in.

Do this as quickly as possible. If you wait too long, you might have problems with your claim. After you send it in, the insurance company will review your case and determine whether or not they’ll approve it. And once approved, they pay for your treatment and a portion of your wages while you recover.

5.     Seek Legal Help If Needed

Insurance companies do deny workers’ compensation claims at times. If it happens with you, then contacting workers compensation attorneys in Connecticut may not be a bad idea.

There are some rules which a workers’ compensation lawyer knows and can advise you well. They’ll help you understand your rights, file a claim, and talk on your behalf. Don’t be afraid to speak with an attorney; they will be there to help in this difficult time.

A lot of lawyers give free consultations, so you can ask questions without incurring costs at first.

6.     Maintain Communication with Your Employer

If you’re kept out of work for long because of an injury, you have an obligation to stay in contact with your employer.

Call them up or text them frequently to keep them posted about your recovery and health. Tell them what your doctor says about when you should be able to return to work. If you require any modifications to your job, including not having to lift something heavy or stand for extended periods of time, let them know.

Many jobs can offer you lighter tasks as you recover. Keeping in touch makes you appear concerned about your job and will assist your employer in planning better when you are ready to return more safely.

7.     Checking Those Mental Health Boxes

And, finally, do not forget to prioritize your mental health during this difficult time.

If you’re feeling sad or anxious, talk to someone you trust. It might be your friend, your relative, or your co-worker. But you can also consult professional therapists, and they will hear your problems, analyse them, and let you know the best method to deal with them.

And oh, by the way, your mental health counts as much as your physical health.

Summing Up

Suffering an injury on the job can be distressing, but it helps to know what to do next.

Take care of yourself by taking action, getting information, and doing the right thing. If you ever have a doubt, inquire. Your employer, doctor, or attorney can help guide you to successful recovery and return to work.