You’re walking in the hallway at work when suddenly you slip and fall due to something that was on the floor. You get up and hurry to clock in so you aren’t late. Throughout the day you could feel pain starting to radiate down your leg. You sit down at your desk without saying a word to your supervisor. Is this advisable? No. What should you do instead? Immediately report it to your supervisor when you fall. You can do so verbally but it is advised to do so in writing as well. Make sure it is documented by him and obtain a copy for yourself.
It is important that you schedule an appointment with your doctor. Make sure to see a specialist if your doctor specifies it and get a copy of your medical record that details your injury. Certain jobs will want you to see the doctor they have on staff also. You are not responsible for their doctor’s second opinion. Any fees he is due will have to be paid by the company you work for.
Keep in mind that a doctor that is paid for by your employers insurance may minimize the degree of your injury. If the doctor would like future business from your employer or the insurance company than he may make it seem as though this was due to a prior injury. As unethical as that is, it happens sometimes. So to protect yourself speak specifically about the injury that occurred at work and not whether you slipped and hurt your leg skiing two years ago. That is not why you are seeing this doctor nor is it the reason why you’re in pain.
Regarding Worker’s compensation they must give you a claim form to file your injury. If the form is not filled out entirely your employee isn’t responsible to offer you benefits.
It is vital to sign and date the form on the “employee” section and as with all other documents, print out a copy to have in your files. Once completed you should return the claim form to your employee so that they can begin the process. If you want to submit the form yourself you can do so by bringing it in to a Worker’s Compensation office (check where it is located in your state) and give the form to your employer also. You may hand-deliver or mail it to your employer. If you choose to mail the claim form, be sure to use “return receipt requested” at your post office. The sooner you file for benefits the quicker you are likely to receive them.
If your injury will result in you permanently being out of work, seek counsel from a lawyer about what necessary steps should be taken from there. A lawyer can help you seek eligibility for Social Security and possibly other benefits. Also, if any part of your claim is being objected by your employer or your employers insurance a lawyer can help settle this so that you are provided with what you are entitled to.
