Getting hurt at work can be a life-altering experience. Whether it’s a sudden accident or an injury that develops over time, work-related injuries can leave you with physical pain, emotional stress, and financial burdens. If you’re injured on the job, knowing what to do immediately afterward is essential to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
At The Pisanchyn Law Firm, we’ve helped countless workers throughout Pennsylvania understand their rights and navigate the workers’ compensation process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take after a work injury.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health should always come first. Even if your injury seems minor, it’s important to see a doctor immediately after the accident. Some injuries, like sprains, strains, or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. By getting medical treatment early, you’ll not only ensure your well-being but also create an important medical record of your injury.
When seeking medical attention, make sure to inform the healthcare provider that your injury occurred at work. This will help document your case properly for any future workers’ compensation claims.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer
After seeking treatment, the next step is to report the injury to your employer. In Pennsylvania, you are required to notify your employer of a work-related injury within 120 days. However, the sooner you report the injury, the better.
Provide your employer with as much detail as possible about the accident, including the time, location, and how it happened. Your employer will likely have you complete an incident report, which will become part of your workers’ compensation claim. Be sure to keep a copy for your own records.
3. Document Everything
Documentation is key when dealing with a work injury. After your accident, gather as much evidence as possible, including:
- Photos or videos of the accident scene and your injuries
- Witness statements or contact information of coworkers who saw the accident
- Copies of any reports, emails, or correspondence related to your injury
Having detailed documentation will strengthen your case if there are any disputes about how the injury occurred or its severity.
4. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
In Pennsylvania, workers who are injured on the job are typically entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Disability benefits (temporary or permanent)
- Rehabilitation services
To receive these benefits, you must file a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer should provide you with the necessary forms, but it’s crucial to follow up and ensure the claim is filed promptly. The process can be complex, so having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side can make a significant difference.
5. Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take after being hurt at work is to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. Unfortunately, employers or their insurance companies sometimes deny legitimate claims or provide insufficient benefits. An attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
At The Pisanchyn Law Firm, our team is dedicated to helping injured workers in Pennsylvania navigate the legal system. We understand the complexities of workers’ comp laws and will fight to get you the maximum benefits.
6. Know Your Rights: Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?
While workers’ compensation covers most work-related injuries, in some cases, you may be able to file a separate personal injury lawsuit if a third party was responsible for your accident. For example, if a defective piece of machinery caused your injury, you may be able to pursue a claim against the manufacturer.
Our attorneys can evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a third-party lawsuit in addition to your workers’ compensation claim, potentially increasing your compensation.
Why Choose The Pisanchyn Law Firm?
At The Pisanchyn Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming and stressful a work injury can be. Our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way. From helping you file your claim to appealing denied claims, we’ll fight to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you need to recover.
With years of experience handling complex workers’ comp cases, we know how to build a strong case and negotiate with insurance companies to get results. If you’ve been hurt at work, don’t leave your future to chance—contact The Pisanchyn Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us help you get the benefits and compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured at work, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact The Pisanchyn Law Firm today for a free consultation, and let us fight for your rights to workers’ compensation and other benefits.
