When you’re busy at work, it only takes a split second for you to get injured. If this has never happened to you before, you may not know what to do next. Follow these three steps to ensure that your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy pays for your claim.
Document The Accident
Whether your work in a large manufacturing facility or a small office setting, accidents and injuries happen all the time. The first thing you need to do is document the situation immediately. Take pictures of the injury and the surrounding environment if possible, and take note of any witnesses. This step is vital in case you need to consult a workmans comp lawyer in the future. Some employers may have their own documentation for reporting accidents, so be sure to complete that right away. Not only does this notify your employer of your injury, but it also allows them to fix the situation in a timely fashion, so no one else gets hurt.
See a Doctor
No matter the extent of the injury, it’s essential to have it assessed by a doctor. This appointment allows them to do a thorough physical to investigate any additional injuries and complete the necessary documentation for insurance purposes. Notify your doctor that your injury occurred at work so they can contact the appropriate people immediately. Since many policies have limitations on when you must report an injury after it happens to be covered, it’s vital to get the process started right away.
Obtain Authorization for Additional Treatment
When you have your initial physician consult, either in urgent care, the ER or your family physician, they contact the worker’s compensation agency to notify them of the injury. That company then follows up with you and informs you which doctors and facilities are in-network and covered under the policy. It’s important to stay within the insurance network for all services, so the treatment is covered in full.