Accidental injuries happen all the time. However, not many people prepare for getting injured on the job. So how do you report an injury, and what kind of documents do you need when filing a Workers’ Compensation claim in Orlando, Florida? At The Law Offices of Charles H. Leo, P.A., we can walk you through the claims process so when the time comes, you know exactly what to do. Schedule a call with a board-certified Workers’ Compensation attorney for a no-obligation consultation today.
Get medical attention
Some victims of workplace injuries fail to get the medical help they need, and this is a very common but dangerous mistake. Even if the injury seems small, we encourage you to see a doctor as soon as possible. This is because injuries such as internal bleeding or whiplash are not always visible and can get worse when left untreated. Inform your doctor about the cause of the injury and keep detailed records of all treatments and therapies. You MUST reveal any prior injuries during the first medical visit, or the insurance company will try to allege the injured worker committed fraud by trying to mislead.
Report the injury in a timely manner
All workplace incidents should be reported to your employer right away. Injuries can be reported to your direct supervisor or the Human Resources department. Be sure to explain when and how the incident occurred in detail. In Orlando, Workers’ Compensation laws require the injured employee to report any accident within a certain timeframe. If you wait too long to file a report, you risk having your claims denied.
Collect evidence if possible
It is important to present evidence that you were injured on the job as a result of negligence or reckless work conditions. If you have a smartphone within easy reach, use it to take pictures or record videos of the scene. So, if you slipped on a wet floor or fell down the stairs, make sure to capture everything you believe is relevant to your case. Your coworkers could take photos for you if you are unable to do so. That being said, do not prioritize collecting evidence if your injury is serious. Getting the medical attention you need comes first.
Keep track of expenses and injuries
Based on the type and severity of the injury, you could qualify for Workers’ Compensation benefits. This means your medical bill and lost wages may be covered. For this reason, keep records of any expenses you have incurred as a result of the accident. Doctors’ visits, surgeries, and prescription medications all count as expenses. Your healthcare facility should also have these records on hand as well.
Contact a workers’ compensation attorney for help
Navigating through Workers’ Compensation can seem stressful and confusing. The Law Offices of Charles H. Leo, P.A. can advise you about your situation and help make sure that you get the compensation you deserve. During a consultation with Florida Board Certified Attorney; Charles H. Leo, he can discuss the details of your accident and what should happen next. Learn more by contacting our office today.
