How To Document A Workplace Injury

What should you do if you get hurt or become sick on the job? Workplace injuries and illnesses can have lasting effects on your health, finances, and career. If this happens to you, it's crucial to document your injury accurately to ensure fair treatment and compensation from your employer as a workplace injury lawyer can share.

In this blog post, you’ll learn what constitutes a workplace injury, the steps to document your injury, and why proper documentation is essential.

This post is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a qualified attorney.

What Is A Workplace Injury?

In simple terms, a workplace injury is any injury or illness that occurs as a direct result of your job duties or work environment as our friends at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC can explain. These injuries can happen suddenly — such as a fall — or develop over time, like repetitive stress injuries. Common examples of workplace injuries include:

• Falls: This includes slips, trips, and falls from heights, which can lead to fractures, sprains, or even head injuries.
• Collisions: Running into objects or being struck by moving machinery or equipment can cause serious harm.
• Repetitive Stress Disorders: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome arise from repetitive tasks over time and can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.
• Chemical Exposure: Exposure to hazardous substances, including chemicals, aerosols, or blood-borne pathogens, can lead to respiratory issues, burns, or long-term health problems.
• Aggravated Pre-existing Conditions: Work activities that worsen an existing condition, such as asthma, can be classified as workplace injuries.
• Defective Equipment: Using unsafe or faulty machinery can result in accidents or severe injuries.
• Heavy Lifting: Straining to lift or move heavy objects often leads to back injuries, muscle tears, or sprains.

These injuries can affect different parts of the body, including the head, spine, eyes, lungs, and bones. If you’ve been injured or become ill due to work-related activities, you may be entitled to file a workers' compensation claim. This type of insurance exists to support employees in covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, to make the most of your claim, thorough documentation is essential.

How To Properly Document A Workplace Injury

Accurately documenting your injury can significantly strengthen your claim. Here are several important steps:

1. Complete An Accident Report at Work: Report the injury to your employer immediately, and fill out any formal accident reports required by your workplace. This is usually the first official record of your injury.

2. Take Photos: Document any visible injuries, such as bruises or swelling, and take photos of the scene where the incident occurred. This visual evidence can be invaluable if your claim is questioned.

3. Gather Witness Statements: If anyone witnessed the incident, ask them to write down what they saw. Witness accounts can provide additional details that support your version of events.

4. Keep Personal Records: Document everything you remember about the accident, including the date, time, and any conditions that contributed to it. Keep a daily log of your symptoms, pain levels, and any limitations caused by the injury.

5. Notify Your Supervisor: Ensure that you formally notify your manager or supervisor of the injury as soon as possible. Failing to do so may lead to questions about the validity of your claim.

6. Save Pay Records: Keep track of your pay stubs, time-off records, and any work-related documents that demonstrate lost wages. These records are essential for calculating compensation if you’re unable to work.

7. Seek Medical Attention And Retain Records: Visit a healthcare professional promptly, even if the injury seems minor. Medical records will serve as documented proof of your injury and can be used to show the necessity of medical treatment. Follow all treatment recommendations and retain copies of prescriptions, doctor’s notes, and medical bills.

8. File A Workers' Compensation Claim: Submit your claim through your employer's workers' compensation insurance. Filing promptly ensures you’re within any statutory deadlines and avoids potential delays in receiving benefits.

Why Proper Documentation Is Important

Proper documentation can make or break a workplace injury claim. Without clear records, you may encounter resistance from your employer or their insurance company when trying to secure compensation. Documentation provides a factual timeline and demonstrates the impact of the injury on your health and finances. It also shows that you’ve taken all appropriate steps to report and treat your injury, underscoring your seriousness in seeking fair compensation.

Accurate documentation can help:

• Ensure Medical Coverage: Workers' compensation is designed to cover medical expenses, and proper records make it easier to secure funding for both immediate and ongoing care.
• Receive Fair Compensation for Lost Wages: If your injury prevents you from working, well-documented lost wages provide a basis for calculating income replacement.
• Protect Your Rights: Employers or insurers may attempt to dispute your claim. Comprehensive documentation gives you solid evidence to counter any challenges to your claim.

Workplace injuries can be complex and challenging to navigate. By documenting your injury thoroughly and following the steps above, you’ll be in a stronger position to secure the benefits you need to recover and get back on your feet. If you have any questions or concerns about your rights, consider reaching out to a workers' compensation attorney to understand the legal support available to you.