I Got Hurt on the Job: What Are My First Steps?

Every year, well over a million Americans suffer work-related injuries while at their workplace or elsewhere on the job. Although workers’ compensation can help employees recover following on-the-job injuries, it isn’t always easy to know what to do, especially in the hours and days immediately after an accident.

Easy Reach Chiropractic is a top provider of patient-centered treatments for work-related accidents, helping patients get the care and attention they need to recover and heal. In this post, Barbara Adonis, DC, and Heather Previll, PT, DPT, offer a quick overview of what steps you should take if you wind up being injured on the job.

1. Get emergency help if you need it

If your injury is serious, emergency medical treatment should be your first concern. Either call 911 or go directly to the emergency room closest to you. Quick treatment can prevent complications, and in terms of your workers’ compensation claim, it can also help document the early stages of your treatment.

2. Document everything

Speaking of documents, keep track of every aspect of your care right from the start. Be scrupulous about collecting all bills, medical records, and emails of your accident, your injury, and your treatment. 

Begin by writing down everything you can about the accident itself, including what you were doing, how the accident occurred, and anything about the environment that contributed to your accident, like a slippery floor or poor lighting. If possible, use your phone to take photos of the accident scene and your injuries, too.

For phone conversations, jot down notes during and after the call, and send follow-up emails summarizing the discussion to provide a written record. Comprehensive documentation can serve a vital role if there are any disputes or delays involving your claim.

3. Notify your employer right away

Though seeking emergency attention is your first priority, notifying your employer needs to be done promptly, too. Florida law requires you to report your accident to your employer within 30 days of its occurrence, but the sooner you report it, the better. Once you report it officially, your employer can begin the claims filing process.

4. Schedule a medical evaluation

Next step: Schedule a visit with our team. We can evaluate your injuries, provide optimal treatment, and evaluate your ability to work. We’ll also provide you with medical documentation to advance your claim and provide support for compensation and workplace accommodations if needed. From a recovery point of view, scheduling a visit as soon as possible helps prevent underlying issues from getting worse..

5. Stick to your treatment plan

Once a treatment plan is in place, it’s important to follow it carefully. Skipping appointments or ignoring medical recommendations regarding your care and recovery could cause your claim to be delayed or even denied entirely. 

If you’re confused about any part of your treatment plan, give us a call — we’ll be happy to explain.

6. Understand the process

If this is your first time filing for workers’ compensation, it isn’t uncommon to feel a little overwhelmed. The Florida Department of Financial Services website provides comprehensive, easy-to-understand information about workers’ compensation to help guide you through the process. 

Being injured on the job can be a nerve-racking experience, but by following these simple steps, you can receive the care and compensation you need to get back on your feet and avoid financial losses. 

To learn how we can help you recover after a workplace accident, request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at Easy Reach Chiropractic in Lake Worth and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, today.