Being injured at the workplace can be terrifying. Not only do you have to suffer from possible long-term injuries that can potentially prevent you from working again, but you also experience emotional distress. If your employer has purchased workers’ compensation insurance, you are entitled to file a claim according to your state’s guidelines and seek compensation.
The process of filing a claim for workers’ compensation is challenging to navigate. The right legal support enables you to take the proper steps to ensure that you receive it. Consult an experienced Everett workers’ compensation attorney that can assess your situation in-depth and guide you through the procedure.
What should you do and not do after suffering from workplace injuries?
- Do seek medical care.
The injuries and illnesses that result from work accidents can often be life-threatening. You must seek medical care immediately after the accident to understand the extent of your injuries and begin appropriate treatment. If you wait too long before seeking treatment, it may be determined that your injury was because of a reason other than the work accident, and you will be unable to receive compensation.
- Do not forget to report to your employer.
As soon as the accident occurs, report it to your employer in writing. Many workplaces have set policies and procedures you must follow to report a worksite accident. Ensure that they file a claim for workers’ compensation on your behalf and ask for a copy of the claim they filed. If they are unaware of your injuries, they may deny your claim, and you must inform them.
- Do take quick action.
Many states have strict and short deadlines within which you must file for workers’ compensation. While the statute of limitations differs in every state, in Washington, the victim has one year from the date of the accident to report it and file for compensation for their injuries. If they have suffered from an occupational illness, they have two years to file for compensation from the date they have been informed about the illness in writing by a healthcare provider.
- Do not disregard your doctor’s instructions.
When you consult a healthcare provider, you must carefully follow their instructions. Attend every appointment and follow their recommendations to aid your recovery, such as physical therapy. If your injuries worsen because you failed to follow their instructions, you will be unable to seek compensation to treat them.
The presence of a qualified attorney can significantly ease your distress during such challenging times. They ensure that you avoid any mistakes and offer valuable advice to help you seek your claim.
