When you’re hurt at work, how you respond to the event can have a big impact on how fast you recover for your losses. There are things that you can do to document your injuries and the other evidence that exists in the case. Your efforts can help you receive your settlement faster than you might receive it if you don’t know what to do after a work injury. If you own a business, it’s recommended that your company provide equipment training through a company like Australia Wide Forklift Training Centre to avoid employee accidents. Here’s how to recover swiftly when you’re injured at work:
Make an Official Report
When you’re hurt at work, you need to make an official report. If your employer has more than just a few employees, there’s probably a standard procedure for making an official incident report. You should make your report as soon as you possibly can. An incident report puts your employer on notice. It might also start the ball rolling for official proceedings under your state’s worker’s compensation system.
Take Photographs and Gather Evidence
Some of the best evidence is right at the scene of your injury. You should take photographs of the scene. If there’s heavy equipment involved like a forklift, take pictures of where the equipment is located. Jot down names of other employees that witness the event. If there are customers or other individuals that saw what happened, ask for their contact information.
Seek Medical Treatment
When you’re hurt, you need a medical expert to document your injuries. Go to the doctor as soon as you get hurt. Not only is it critical for your safety, but it also quickly creates a record of your injuries.
Consider Worker’s Compensation or a Personal Injury Claim
Each state has their own worker’s compensation system. It’s a system that exists to help employees who get hurt at work. Depending on your state’s rules, the worker’s compensation system might be your only avenue for recovery. If you have the option, you may need to determine whether to bring a worker’s compensation case or a personal injury claim. There are merits to both, but there are strict time limits for filing your claim. An experienced workplace injury attorney can help you determine which path is best for you.
Don’t Wait to Take Action
It’s important to work quickly when you’re hurt at work. You should take photos of evidence on the scene and gather witness contact information. You must work quickly to bring your claim for worker’s compensation or personal injury. Carefully documenting your injuries and providing timely notice of your claim can help you quickly get the recovery that you need and deserve.