Accidents can happen at any workplace, whether you work in an office, a construction site, a warehouse, or a restaurant. One moment, everything seems fine, and the next, you’re dealing with pain, confusion, and stress about what to do next. If you get injured on the job in Los Angeles, taking the right steps immediately can make a big difference in your recovery and your ability to receive compensation.
This article will guide you through the essential steps to take after a workplace injury, ensuring you protect your health, job, and legal rights.
Consider Hiring a Work Injury Lawyer
While you can handle a workers’ compensation claim independently, hiring an attorney for your work injury may help you get more compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and employers may try to deny responsibility.
When You Should Get a Lawyer:
Your claim is denied or delayed.
You are forced to return to work before you’re fully healed.
You suffered a severe or permanent injury.
You were injured due to a third party (e.g., defective equipment, another driver, etc.).
You believe your employer is mistreating you after the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health is the most important thing. Even if your injury seems minor, get medical help immediately. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can become severe later.
What to Do:
Call 911 or ask a co-worker to do so if it's an emergency.
If it’s not an emergency but still painful, ask your employer to send you to a doctor.
Follow all medical advice given by your doctor.
Keep records of all medical visits, prescriptions, and treatments.
Report Your Injury to Your Employer
After getting medical attention, you must immediately notify your employer about the injury. Failing to report the injury on time could delay or may even result in a denial of workers' compensation benefits.
How to Report the Injury:
Inform your supervisor or manager about what happened.
Explain the details: when, where, and how the injury occurred.
Put it in writing (email or official incident report) for proof.
Keep a copy of your injury report for your records.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
California law requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means that if you get hurt at work, you may be entitled to benefits like medical treatment, lost wages, and disability payments.
How to File a Claim:
Your employer should give you a claim form after you report the injury.
Fill out the “Employee” section of the form.
Submit it to your employer as soon as possible.
Your employer will complete their section and send it to the insurance company.
The insurance company will review your claim and decide whether to approve or deny benefits.
Gather and Preserve Evidence
To protect yourself, collecting evidence proving your injury happened at work is essential.
What Evidence Should You Collect?
Photos or videos of the accident scene, your injury, and any hazardous conditions.
Witness statements from co-workers who saw the accident.
Medical reports and doctor’s notes about your injury.
Copies of all paperwork related to your injury, including emails and reports.
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
Your workers' compensation benefits depend on your medical records and treatment. If you don’t follow your doctor’s advice, the insurance company might say you are not injured.
What to Do:
Attend all medical appointments.
Take prescribed medications.
Follow physical therapy or rehabilitation plans.
Keep a personal record of your pain levels and progress in recovery.
Know Your Rights as an Injured Worker
Many workers don’t realize they have a strong legal claim after a workplace injury. Knowing what you’re entitled to can prevent employers or insurance companies from taking advantage of you.
Your Rights Include:
The right to receive medical care for your work injury.
The right to return to work when your doctor approves.
The right to receive temporary or permanent disability benefits if you cannot work.
The right to file a third-party lawsuit if someone other than your employer caused the accident.
The right to hire a work injury lawyer to help with your claim.
The right to workers’ compensation benefits, even if you are an undocumented worker.
Be Aware of Deadlines and Legal Time Limits
California has strict time limits for filing claims. Missing deadlines can result in losing your benefits.
30 Days: Notify your employer about your injury.
One Year: File a workers' compensation claim.
Two Years: File a personal injury lawsuit (if applicable).
Final Thoughts
A workplace injury can be overwhelming, but immediately taking steps can protect your health, job, and financial future. Seek medical help, report your injury, file a claim, and know your rights. If you face any difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. If you or someone you know has been injured at work in Los Angeles, take action today. Your health and financial well-being depend on it.
