What to Do After a Serious Workplace Accident
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 3 million work-related, non-fatal injuries and illnesses in private businesses in the US in 2024.
Workplace accident attorney Brian Mitchell says that workplace accidents can happen in different scenarios. This is very important to assess what a work-related accident really is. A work environment is defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as the work establishment and other locations that employees must be present in as a condition of their employment. A work-related accident could also happen in an employer’s vehicle, at external job sites, or anywhere your job responsibilities are conducted.
Let’s find out what action steps you can take when you experience a serious accident in the workplace.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention
You must immediately seek treatment after sustaining an injury at work. See a doctor right away even if the injury does not seem serious. Some injuries may appear to be nothing to worry about but get worse in time.
Contact an ambulance if you can. But as much as possible, having a friend, a co-worker, or a family member to take you to the nearest hospital or clinic would be better.
Document all your doctor’s visits with complete detail of your treatment. Write down the names and dates of the medications prescribed. Such documents can be beneficial in your future claims procedures or legal matters.
Report the Incident to Your Supervisor
Your supervisor must be informed about your injuries as soon as possible. Give them the concrete details of the incident, before and after it happened. Inform them who is injured and what immediate action was taken.
Freely express your concerns about safety or prevention. Most of the time, resolutions are also provided quickly when incidents are reported right away.
Stay proactive in dealing with the situation to create a safe work environment.
Document the Accident Thoroughly
A thorough documentation ensures the accurate recording of all important details.
Start with a report of the exact details of the incident by recording the hour, date, and the particular accident site. Determine all the names of parties and witnesses during the incident.
Photograph the scene, the equipment, and injuries, if anything exists. Gather relevant documents, such as safety reports or equipment maintenance records.
Do not forget any unusual condition, including weather or lightning at the time of the accident. All these can be essential during investigation and claims.
See to it to maintain an organized and secure set of notes for your future reference and easy access.
Understand Your Rights and Benefits
If you know your rights and benefits, you will have the confidence to pursue legal claims. You may receive compensation to pay for medical costs and wages lost.
Stay updated with your company policies and state laws to determine the benefits you can receive. You can also file for additional compensation if your injury is due to someone else’s negligence.
See to it that you document every medical visit and expense related to your injury, as they will matter as you file a claim. Never delay reporting the accident to your employer as early as possible to file within the statute of limitations.
Consult with a Legal Professional
Schedule a consultation with a lawyer specialized in workplace accidents to get familiar with your options and rights. A workplace lawyer will guide you throughout the legal process you need for your workers’ compensation claim.
Your lawyer will also advice you on the next steps you need to take and even collect supporting evidence for you.
Prioritize your health and safety after the accident. Do not put your needs aside. Get every help you can as you recover. Having a lawyer can play a big role in your case until you receive the proper settlement.