For some folks, a bad day at work means dealing with a stubborn client, missing a tight deadline or making it late to the office. For others, however, it can be in the form of a tragic accident in the workplace that results in a serious injury.
The steps you take following your Ohio workplace accident can make or break your workers’ compensation claim. In other words, making certain mistakes may result in your claim either being reduced or denied altogether.
Here are costly mistakes that you need to avoid when you are hurt at your workplace.
Failing to report your injury
It is not unusual for an injured employee to be reluctant about reporting their injury or illness to their employer. It could be due to ignorance or the fear that they might lose their job. It could also be due to an assumption that the injury is not so serious as to bring to the attention of the employer. However, it is important to understand that keeping a workplace-related injury or illness a secret is a costly mistake that can come back to haunt you, especially if the situation worsens. Additionally, Ohio has a strict timeline for reporting workplace injuries and filing claims. As such, it is prudent that you report the injury or illness as soon as possible to boost your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Failing to get medical attention immediately
Seeking medical attention soon after you are hurt is crucial, especially since the circumstances surrounding the accident will still be fresh in your mind. If you fail to get medical care immediately following the accident, you will have a hard time convincing the court or the Workers’ Compensation Commission that your workplace had something to do with your injury. During your doctor’s visit, it is important that you explain exactly how you sustained the injury or acquired the illness so it can be captured in your medical report. Also, be sure to keep a proper medical record and follow through with any treatment appointments that the doctor recommends.
Workplace injuries can happen at any time. When they do, it is important that you know what to safeguard your rights and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for your damages.