No one goes to work and expects to be involved in an accident. Unfortunately, it happens every day.
If you are injured on the job, it can be a confusing and challenging situation. Making a mistake or not taking the right steps can cause serious issues if you try to pursue benefits.
Don’t wait to report the incident
After an on-the-job accident, you need to report it to your employer immediately. You legally have 30 days to report the incident. You can lose your right to benefits if you fail to report it within 30 days.
However, waiting to report the incident can backfire. For example, if you do this, your employer or their insurance company may claim your injury was not serious or that you were not injured at work. This can make it difficult to recover the benefits you deserve.
Seek medical treatment
When you are hurt at work, you should have a medical evaluation. Your employer has the right to choose your doctor. Once you provide written notice of the incident and your injuries, they should take steps to ensure that you get medical treatment. They must also file a report with the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
Protecting your rights to benefits after an on-the-job accident
Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to be a kind of “no-fault” insurance that balances the needs of the injured worker against the needs of the company. This means that you can recover benefits even if you were partly or fully at fault for your injury (with some exceptions). Knowing your legal rights will help you protect them and get the benefits that you really need.
