Millions of individuals are injured or become ill while on the job in America every year. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 2.9 million individuals suffered a non-fatal work illness or injury in 2016, and this figure only takes into account private employers. Anyone who suffers an injury on the job should ensure they receive fair compensation, and a work injury accident attorney in Alton, IL can be of great help with this. What steps should you take following the injury or illness to protect your claim?
Seek Medical Assistance
The first step is to obtain medical help, as you wish to minimize any damage that may result from the illness or injury. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to see a specialist. However, in an emergency situation, this is not of importance. Find help in the closest location possible. Be sure to let the medical provider know the illness or injury was sustained on the job.
Alert Superiors to the Illness or Injury
Your superior must be notified of the accident or illness to be reimbursed for your claim. Let them know as soon as possible about the problem; preferably before seeking medical care. However, this is not always possible. Be sure to file a report promptly as soon as the necessary care has been obtained. This notification must take place within a specific time period if workers’ compensation is to cover the accident or illness, so be sure to seek legal advice as to when this time period expires.
File for Workers’ Compensation
Once the employer has been notified, file a workers’ compensation claim. The program is in place to help individuals in this situation. Again, there is a time limit on filing for this compensation, so be sure you do not miss the deadline.
Check out our website to learn more about work-related accidents and injuries. When you have been injured by someone else’s actions, you should be properly compensated. A work injury accident attorney in Alton, IL can be of great help to achieve this goal. The law is often not enough to protect you, but a top area law firm will.
