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How to Legally Deal with a Workplace Injury

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Every year there are almost three million workplace injuries that occur in the US. No matter what state you live in, there are strict laws that protect American workers from dangerous work conditions, and if these laws are broken, there are major consequences for those responsible. Workplace injuries occur for various reasons, and the severity of the damage caused can range from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening issues. Different states have different workplace regulations and varying processes for helping workers who have sustained an injury, but there are certain steps for employees to take, which are universal across the country.

This article is a guide to how to legally deal with a workplace injury.

Make Your Claim Without Fear

The single most important thing for you to know if you have been injured in your place of work is that you are 100% legally entitled to file a claim against your employers without fear of dismissal, intimidation, dismissal, or any other repercussions. It does not matter what state you live in, this is a universal worker’s right, and if you have been injured, you should absolutely look to make a claim. Not only is it illegal for your employer or managers to try and intimidate or manipulate you out of claiming, but it is also illegal for them to try and pay you off for your silence. Know your rights and do not let yourself be coerced in any way.

Hire a Qualified Legal Team

Whilst it is your absolute right as an American worker to file a claim against your employers, it can still be a scary and intimidating thing to do. For this reason, it is vital that you hire the services of experienced attorneys to prepare and fight your case for you. If you have suffered an injury at work, your lawyers can ensure that you receive the full compensation that you deserve in order to get on with your life. 

Your attorneys will do everything within their power and use all of their years of experience to ensure that your rights are protected, and you get the full payment that you are entitled to. If for some reason, the decision does not go in your favor, your legal team can then advise you with regards to your right to appeal. The Workers’ Compensation Process can be complex and overwhelming without professional guidance. Skilled attorneys simplify this process, ensuring every step is handled correctly to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

Seek Medical Treatment

Having made your claim and secured the representation of an experienced legal team, the next thing that you must do is seek medical treatment and the earliest possible time. Do not even worry about the cost of your medical bills at this time because they will all be covered in your eventual compensation payout. It is really important that you do not delay your medical checkup because there are many states with a time limit on when your medical records can be used as evidence. Your employer’s lawyers and the insurance company will find any way possible to avoid having to pay you compensation and so if you don’t go to the hospital immediately, they will try to claim that your injuries occurred at a later date. 

Make sure that you get all of your medical reports from your doctors and that you explain to them exactly how you sustained your injuries. These reports may be pivotal in any future court proceedings where the facts of the case are being disputed.

Take the Correct Legal Steps at Work

When you sustain an injury in your workplace, it is vital that you follow the correct legal procedures so that you can protect your rights. It is really important that you report your injury to your supervisors immediately following the incident so that it can be logged in the workplace accident book

As with your medical checkup, many states’ laws have a time limit in which you must report an incident; otherwise, it can not be used as evidence in a legal case. If you are in any doubt, be sure to consult with your attorneys who will be able to advise you on the specific laws where you live and the correct steps to take. Make sure to ask all the witnesses who saw the incident occur for a written statement so that you can use it in your favor later. It is really important that they understand that they are protected by the same rights that protect you and that no retribution can be taken against them.

Workplace injuries can cause an enormous amount of pain and suffering. It is vital that you understand your legal rights and that you seek medical and legal assistance immediately in order to mitigate the consequences of your injuries. Do not allow yourself to be coerced or intimidated into doing anything. Rely on the advice of your doctors and lawyers and focus all your energy on recovering from your injuries.

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