Hurt on the Job? Your First 5 Steps Toward Workers' Compensation

Getting hurt on the job is a serious problem. Unfortunately, many people fail to take the necessary steps to obtain the compensation they are entitled to after a workplace injury. 

Injury and Health Urgent Care offers comprehensive assistance and treatment for individuals requiring workers’ compensation. Melissa Kempf, MD, Shannon Wait, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, and the rest of our staff want to make sure you’re aware of your compensation benefits and the steps to take to get the assistance you require. 

So, where should you begin? 

Step 1: Tell your employer 

Telling your employer or direct manager as soon as possible that you were hurt on the job is paramount to getting workers’ comp benefits. If there are witnesses to an on-the-job accident, make sure they also file the appropriate statements, attesting to what they saw occur.

While we hope for the best, employers don’t always provide the assistance or confirmation needed after a work-related injury. Your employer may even try to change your mind about what happened. 

Thus, following the notification process, as outlined by your employer, which typically requires documentation, is imperative. If you aren’t sure of your company's process, check with a supervisor or a human resources officer, since this information should be readily available to all employees.

Step 2: Get immediate medical attention

Once you’ve notified your supervisor or employer, your next move is to seek medical attention. Depending on the type of injury, you may even want to inform your employer on the way to the clinic. 

We want to emphasize how important it is not to delay getting medical care, especially if your injury results from an on-site accident. 

When you arrive at our clinic, we’ll work to see you as quickly as possible and provide you with a workers’ compensation evaluation. This means we will assess injuries thoroughly and provide medical care as necessary. 

Step 3: Obtain legal representation 

Filing a workers’ compensation claim is possible without legal representation, and many people do it every year. 

However, due to the complexity of the workers’ comp system, we recommend having someone who knows the law in your corner. This ensures you receive the best possible assistance and may help prevent future roadblocks. We’re also happy to connect you with individuals who specialize in this kind of legal work.

Step 4: Fill out and file paperwork 

Aside from getting the proper medical attention as soon as possible, this may be the most critical step. 

Filing the necessary legal documents correctly is paramount to your claim, and certain mistakes can cause you to be denied compensation. Fortunately, our office can also help you complete and deliver these documents. 

Also, remember that your employer can’t tell you not to file a workers’ compensation claim. If they suggest that, make sure to document it. Once you file, they are legally obligated to submit your claim.

Step 5: Follow up

Never assume that visiting our clinic and filling out the initial paperwork is the end of a workers’ compensation claim. The case must go through several steps before funds related to the injury are disbursed.  

No more than a week after visiting our office and filing your claim, please reach out to us again. We’ll be happy to let you know where to go from here. That might include long-term treatment for your injuries, filing additional paperwork, or reaching out to others, including your employer and your state or the federal labor board. 

Don’t make mistakes when applying for workers’ comp

Even minor mistakes can prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve when injured on the job. Don’t let this happen. Get the help you need from experts who can assist you throughout the process.  

Don’t delay. Visit us online or call our office in San Antonio, Texas, today.