An injury at work can be quite dramatic, throwing a person into confusion regarding his or her rights and what steps should be taken next. Whether it’s a slip and fall accident, an injury sustained due to machine operations, or a repetitive stress injury, having an idea of what to do immediately after an injury can heavily weigh upon the outcome in this case. A workplace injury attorney Newport Beach, California tells you what crucial steps protect your health and legal rights. 

Step 1: Seek Medical Treatment Right Away

Protection of your health would come first. After that, when injured on the job, get medical assistance. Even when thinking that the injury is very slight, a medical check is very important. Some injuries like concussions or internal injuries may not show immediate symptoms but could have very serious long-term consequences. 

Step 2: Inform Your Employer About the Injury

Report the injury to your employer immediately. According to California law, injured workers have 30 days to report their injury if they want to maintain their eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. If you were to fail to report your injury, you could find your claim denied. 

Step 3: Document Everything

Good records can help your case. Keep records of the following: 

• the date, time, and location where the accident occurred.
• Witnesses and their statements.
• Photos/videos of the accident scene and injury.
• Medical records and receipts from your treatment.

All of these will help if your claim should become contested, as your attorney will be able to prove your case.

Step 4: File a Workers Compensation Claim

Workers Compensation offers different benefits for every employee in California for medical treatment, loss of wages, and rehabilitation services. Within one business day of reporting the injury to your employer, he or she should give you a DWC-1 claim form. Fill in that form carefully and forward it as fast as possible to initiate the claims process.

Step 5: Consult a Workplace Injury Attorney

A workplace injury attorney Newport Beach, California, is very important if your claim is denied, delayed, and undervalued. They can:

• Appeal denied claims.
• Negotiate settlement terms with insurance companies.
• Represent you in hearings if necessary.
• Pursue additional compensation if a third party contributed to your injury.
• It protects your rights and guarantees you get the compensation you deserve.

FAQs 

• Can my employer fire me for filing a workers’ compensation claim?

California law forbids employers to retaliate against a worker filing a legitimate claim for workers’ compensation.

• What if I work here and my employer has no coverage?

Uninsured employers are still liable to provide benefits through the Uninsured Employers Benefit Trust Fund (UEBTF). A workplace injury attorney can help you with the procedure if that happens.

Final Thoughts!

Accidents usually leave scars on life because knowing your rights and following these right measures ensures benefits and compensation. The expert workplace injury attorney Newport Beach, California from The Law Office of Niko Paris can help you stand by your rights and fight for them if you need legal assistance.