About 2.8 million nonfatal work-related injuries have occurred in the private sector, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This staggering number of reported incidents highlights the significance of ensuring safety in the workplace and understanding the workers’ compensation process.
Filing for workers’ compensation can be daunting, especially when you are already dealing with the stress of an injury. Awareness of the common missteps during this complex process is vital to securing the benefits you need to recover.
Failing to report the injury promptly
One of the most crucial steps in filing for workers’ compensation is reporting your injury as soon as it happens. North Carolina law requires you to report your injury to your employer in writing within 30 days of the injury, but the sooner you notify them, the better.
Delaying the report can also complicate your claim. Employers may question the validity of the injury or argue that it did not happen at work. Immediately informing them about the accident can help you establish a clear link between the injury and your job.
Not seeking medical attention
One of the most common mistakes workers make after a workplace accident is downplaying the severity of their injury. Sometimes, workers continue working through the pain or minimize the symptoms when speaking with supervisors or medical professionals owing to a strong work ethic or due to the fear of losing their job. This can lead to a lack of medical documentation, which is crucial for your compensation claim.
Remember, seeking medical attention is important for your health and for the success of your compensation claim. Ensuring that your injury is well-documented by a healthcare professional can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
It is your right to receive proper compensation after a workplace injury. However, it is also essential to understand the complexities involved to ensure that you secure the benefits you deserve.