Getting injured at work can be traumatizing. Medical bills and treatment costs can dent your finances, and if you are out of work for a long time, the consequences can be challenging. If you sustained injuries in an accident at work in Tucson, you should take steps to file the workers’ compensation claim. The process is rather straightforward on paper, but because insurance companies don’t always play fair, it is always better to be cautious. You need to also look for a reliable workers compensation lawyer in Tucson to know the case better. Here are some things to do after your injury.
Seek medical care
No matter the nature of your injuries, you must seek medical attention soon after the accident. Your workers’ compensation benefits largely depend on your medical records, and the sooner you seek care, the better it is for the case. If you have an existing injury, let the doctor know, especially if your current work has exaggerated the pain and symptoms.
Inform the employer
You have the obligation to report the injury to your employer. You can file a report with HR or your manager, depending on the arrangement or details mentioned in the employee’s handbook. It is an ideal step within the first 24 hours of your injury. In some cases, it is okay to inform a co-worker, too.
Don’t return to work unless your doctor says so
Because there is financial pressure, many injured workers often try to return to work even when their respective doctors have advised otherwise. Don’t make that mistake. If your injury worsens or the insurance company finds that you didn’t adhere to the recommended treatment plan, your workers’ compensation claim could be in jeopardy.
Get an attorney
As pointed out earlier, you need a reliable attorney to deal with the workers’ compensation claim. Your employer cannot fire you just because you hired legal help. Whether it is about negotiating the benefits or making an appeal after your claim is denied, your attorney can be your biggest and most trusted resource.
Final word
Always take time to heal and recover, and if you are worried about the claim, talk to your lawyer, who will ensure all due steps are followed. They are also in charge of paperwork, and when there are additional concerns, such as wrongful termination following a work injury, the lawyer can help with all that, too. Find a local lawyer in Tucson who works extensively and exclusively for injured workers.
