Getting injured on the job is never part of the plan. One moment you’re going about your day, and the next, you’re hurt. Not only is it painful, but it can also be scary and confusing when it comes to your next steps. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Follow these steps after you’ve been hurt while at work.
Take care of yourself first
Before you even consider anything else, focus on your health. If you’re seriously hurt, get medical attention right away. If your workplace has an on-site medical team, let them check you out. If not, head to a doctor or hospital as soon as you can. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s worth getting checked. Sometimes, injuries don’t show their full effects until later. The last thing you want is to have an injury go unnoticed and turn into something worse.
Tell your boss about it
Once you’re safe and have been looked at, report the injury to your supervisor or manager. It’s important to do this as soon as possible because there are usually rules about how long you have to report a workplace injury. Your employer might need to file an official report, and this can help make sure you get the support you need.
Stay in touch with your boss as you recover. Let them know how you’re doing and when your doctor thinks you’ll be ready to come back. Some employers offer light-duty work while you’re healing, so if that’s something you think you can handle, ask about it. You might even be offered the chance to work remotely while you’re recovering if getting to work is going to be an issue.
Keep track of EVERYTHING
And we mean EVERYTHING. Documentation is your best friend in situations like this. Write down what happened, when it happened, and where. If there were any witnesses, ask them if they’d be willing to write down what they saw. Keep copies of any medical records, bills, or reports related to your injury. The more information you have, the better prepared you’ll be if you need to take further steps.
Find out what benefits you might have
Most workplaces have some kind of system in place to help employees who get hurt on the job. Workers’ compensation is meant to cover medical expenses and lost wages while you recover. Your employer or HR department should be able to guide you through the process, but it’s always a good idea to do your own research too.
Workplace injuries are more common than people realize, and laws exist to protect workers like you. If at any point you feel like your employer isn’t taking your injury seriously or isn’t following the right steps, don’t be afraid to speak up. You have rights, and there are organizations that can help you make sure those rights are respected.
Consider compensation
If your injury was caused by unsafe working conditions, negligence, or faulty equipment, you might have the option to claim compensation beyond workers’ comp. This is where accident lawyers can be helpful. They can walk you through your options and make sure you get what you deserve. It’s not about being difficult or confrontational. It’s about making sure you’re taken care of.
Give yourself time!
Recovery is more than the physical side of things. You need to take care of every aspect of you. Getting hurt can take a toll on your mental health too. If your doctor recommends time off, take it – even if it’s to recover mentally. Pushing yourself too hard too soon can make things worse. If you’re struggling with anxiety or stress about your injury, consider talking to a counselor or someone you trust.
Accept help
Going through an injury can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Talk to your friends, family, or coworkers. Let them help you if they can. Support makes a huge difference, whether it’s someone running an errand for you or just listening when you need to vent.
Following your doctor’s advice is another key to getting better. Take any prescribed medications as directed, go to follow-up appointments, and do any recommended physical therapy. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Your body knows what it needs, and it’s important to listen to it.
Dealing with a workplace injury isn’t easy, but you don’t have to figure it all out at once. Focus on what you can do today. Take care of yourself, ask for help when you need it, and know that healing takes time. You’ve got this.
