It is in employers’ and employees’ best interest to keep the working environment healthy and safe. Improvement of workplace safety is a continual process, as operational methods, equipment and tools inevitably change. While accidents happen, a prompt response is the responsibility of those involved. When a person has a workplace injury in Martinsburg WV, they can call an attorney to discuss their options and rights. Below are several steps to take after a workplace injury.
Address the Victim’s Medical Needs
The first thing to do after an accident is to assess the victim’s need for medical assistance. In an emergency situation, call 911; for non-emergency situations, find a doctor or hospital that works with the company’s insurer. Choosing an in-network provider is the best way to ensure efficient care.
Gather Information
Victims should not disregard injuries that appear to be minor. Rather, they should learn everything possible about the event, and gather information such as:
A description of the who, what, when, where and why of the event
A list of medical treatments performed on-site
Witnesses’ and supervisors’ contact info
Clients should not let an employer pressure them into not reporting a workplace injury in Martinsburg WV. Furthermore, they should direct treatment or coverage toward the company’s worker’s compensation policy rather than their own health insurance.
Full Reporting
Injured workers should document the time they miss, and they should notify a supervisor in writing as soon as possible. Failure to provide notification within 30 days may lead to a denial of the employee’s worker’s compensation claim. Many providers will allow notifications to be made via email or over the phone.
Follow the Insurers’ and Doctors’ Requests
For optimal results, injured workers should adhere to all insurer and doctor requests. If the worker prefers to be examined by his or her own doctor, it may raise suspicion about the claim’s legitimacy and require advice from an injury attorney.
If someone is injured in a workplace accident, an accident or injury lawyer may be able to provide help. By hiring a local lawyer, an injured worker can get a free consultation and learn more about his or her case. Visit the site today to set an appointment.
